By ADEPOTE AROWOJOBE

Lagos youths under the Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat Youth Ambassador (KOHYA) have announced plans to support the endorsement of Dr Kadiri Hamzat for the 2027 Lagos State governorship election.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports Hamzat, of the All Progressives Congress (APC), is the incumbent deputy governor serving under Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu in Lagos State.

The endorsement was declared during the unveiling of KOH Youth Ambassador across 377 wards at the SAM Shonibare Youth Centre in Lagos on Saturday.

Mr Ibrahim Adigun, the Convener, said KOHYA has been launched as a structured grassroots movement of politically engaged youths committed to shaping governance in Lagos State.

He said the initiative marked a shift from passive observation to active participation, with youths becoming organised, informed and politically engaged stakeholders.

Adigun added the platform operates as a civic and advocacy movement built on evidence, accountability and deliberate engagement rather than party affiliation.

“KOHYA is structured across 20 LGAs and 37 LCDAs with ward coordinators and media teams,” he said, describing it as a coordinated statewide force.

He added that a key mandate is the endorsement of Dr Kadiri Hamzat for the 2027 Lagos governorship election.

Adigun said the endorsement was based on Hamzat’s record in digital transformation, infrastructure development, national service and political maturity.

He stressed the decision was grounded in verifiable achievements rather than emotional or political pressure.

The group also declared support for the re-election of President Bola Tinubu, citing youth inclusion, digital economy growth and economic reforms.

It expressed confidence in policy continuity as a pathway to long-term development while acknowledging existing national challenges.

Adigun outlined plans including leadership mobilisation, grassroots engagement, digital advocacy and community outreach across Lagos State.

He urged youths to actively participate in governance, saying KOHYA seeks to convert youth energy into real political influence.

Earlier, Mr Quadri Odewunmi, president, National Association of Nigeria Students (NANS), Lagos State chapter, said Hamzat had contributed significantly to technology and youth development in the state.

In response, Hamzat, represented by Mr Femi Michael, APC leader in Apapa, expressed gratitude to the youths for their support, describing it as highly significant.

According to him, youths are the largest population and must be included in decision-making processes affecting governance.

“Hamzat is passionate about Lagos development and not self-interest driven,” he said.

Ms Itunuoluwa Soniregun, KOHYA ambassador, called for stronger youth inclusion in governance, stressing that young people must be carried along in all decisions. (NAN)