The Cityboy Movement in Ogun State has backed Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola’s Itesiwaju: Nine Pillars, One Vision agenda, calling it an opportunity to promote youth empowerment, economic growth and sustainable development ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
The Deputy Coordinator of the movement in Ogun State, Habeeb Whyte, stated this in a statement on Thursday, emphasising the need for their active participation in shaping Ogun’s future.
Whyte said the agenda’s focus on critical sectors of the economy aligned with the aspirations of young people seeking improved opportunities in education, employment, entrepreneurship and skills development.
According to him, Itesiwaju, which means progress or advancement, represents a development vision that should translate into improved living standards and greater economic opportunities for residents.
He said, “The expression Itesiwaju carries a meaning that resonates deeply with our collective aspirations: advancement, development and progress. Its importance lies in the conversations it opens about the direction of Ogun State and the place of young people in that future.”
Whyte identified infrastructure development, tourism and creative arts, education, security, healthcare, youth and sports development, agriculture, industrialisation and urban renewal as key components of the nine-pillar agenda.
He noted that effective implementation of policies across these sectors could create opportunities for young people to contribute to the state’s economic growth while strengthening their professional and entrepreneurial capacities.
The Cityboy Movement leader also stressed the importance of continuity in governance, arguing that building on existing achievements while embracing innovation could sustain development and strengthen public institutions.
“There is a fundamental difference between political continuity and developmental continuity. The latter concerns the sustained improvement of institutions, infrastructure, economic opportunities and public services,” he said.
He maintained that young people should be active participants in conversations about the state’s future rather than limit their involvement to political mobilisation.
On youth empowerment, Whyte highlighted a proposal in The Progressive YAYI, a publication associated with Adeola, which outlines a commitment to train at least 100,000 young people in digital skills, alongside support for entrepreneurship, business incubation and market access.
He described the proposal as a significant area of interest for young people, particularly as digital technology continues to create opportunities across various sectors of the economy.
According to him, equipping youths with relevant skills and supporting their entrepreneurial ambitions could strengthen their capacity to participate in the emerging economy.
He added that education, agricultural transformation, youth development and industrialisation should be treated as interconnected priorities capable of expanding employment opportunities and promoting sustainable livelihoods.
“Education should equip young people with relevant knowledge and practical capabilities. Youth development programmes should provide pathways to entrepreneurship, professional growth and meaningful participation,” he stated.
Whyte noted that agriculture could create opportunities in production, processing, logistics and technology, while industrialisation could expand employment for skilled workers and support the growth of locally established businesses.
He called for stronger engagement between political leaders and youth groups to ensure that development initiatives reflect the needs and aspirations of young people across Ogun State.
“A progressive state should not merely create programmes for young people. It should create opportunities for young people to help shape those programmes,” he said.
The movement’s deputy coordinator urged youths across the state to take a keen interest in development policies and participate constructively in the political process ahead of the 2027 elections.
He said youth participation, skills development and grassroots engagement remained crucial to building a state where young people could contribute meaningfully to economic growth and community development.
Whyte added that the Itesiwaju: Nine Pillars, One Vision agenda had opened up opportunities for discussions on infrastructure, education, healthcare, employment and inclusive development.
He said the movement would continue to encourage informed youth participation and constructive engagement on policies aimed at improving the welfare of residents.
“As the political atmosphere develops ahead of 2027, our generation has an opportunity to demonstrate a more informed approach to civic participation. We should be willing to acknowledge constructive ideas and contribute to the conversation about our collective future,” he stated.
Whyte added that the ultimate value of the Itesiwaju vision would be measured by stronger institutions, improved public services, sustainable employment and better living standards for the people of Ogun State.