The Amir and National Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at of Nigeria, Bar. Alatoye Abdulazeez, has urged Nigerian youths to unite politically and strategically, identifying Prince Adewole Adebayo, as a potential leader capable of driving national transformation if given collective support.
Speaking during an interview, Abdulazeez emphasized that Nigeria’s progress hinges largely on the ability of young people to organize themselves beyond tribal, religious, and financial inducements, and to rally behind credible leadership.
According to him, while several young candidates have emerged in past elections, their failure to build strong alliances allowed older political forces to maintain dominance.
He noted that the case of Adebayo, a lawyer and businessman who contested under the Social Democratic Party, SDP, presents an opportunity for a different political direction if youths can act in unity.
“If the younger generation is sure that Adewole Adebayo can deliver, they should team up with him, get things right, and encourage other youths across tribes to see themselves as one,” Abdulazeez said.
He stressed that Nigeria is currently in what he described as a “storming stage” of nationhood, where divisions along ethnic and regional lines continue to hinder development. He warned that unless a “national norm” is established—where citizens prioritize unity over sectional interests—the country may struggle to reach its full potential.
The cleric further advised youths to avoid electoral inducement and reject divisive politics, urging them instead to focus on long-term nation-building. “We must move from where we are to the next stage. Otherwise, we will keep moving in the same direction,” he added.
Beyond politics, Abdulazeez reiterated the Ahmadiyya motto, “Love for All, Hatred for None,” as a guiding principle for national cohesion, stressing that religion should be a force for peace rather than division.
He condemned terrorism and violence carried out in the name of religion, insisting that such acts contradict Islamic teachings.
On governance, he acknowledged efforts by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that while progress has been made in some areas, more attention is needed in critical sectors such as power and economic management.
Abdulazeez concluded with a call for collective responsibility among citizens, particularly the youth, to reshape Nigeria’s future through unity, moral discipline, and active participation in governance.
“Leadership is not just about those in office,” he said. “It is also about those who choose them.”