Akure is set to host a major youth dialogue aimed at strengthening young Nigerians’ understanding of governance, democracy and their role in shaping the country’s future.
The “Nigerian Youths and Governance: Your Place in Democracy” Youth Dialogue, organised by the Association for Students’ Social Welfare Network (ASSWN) in partnership with the Remi Odunsi Organization (ROO) and Power & Glory Tabernacle, will take place on Saturday, September 5, 2026.
The event is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Power & Glory Tabernacle, FUTA South Gate, Akure, Ondo State.
According to the organisers, the initiative is designed to move young people beyond political commentary and seasonal election participation towards informed, active and responsible engagement with governance and democratic processes.
Speaking on the initiative, the Founder and Executive Director of ASSWN, Amb. Victor Adetolaju, MITPN, said young Nigerians should not be viewed merely as future leaders but as active participants in the country’s democracy today.
“Nigeria cannot build a stronger democracy by simply waiting for young people to become leaders of tomorrow,” Adetolaju said.
He noted that young Nigerians are already voters, entrepreneurs, professionals, community influencers and citizens whose decisions and actions have a direct impact on society.
“The question is not whether they have a place in democracy, but whether they are adequately prepared, informed and organised to occupy that space responsibly,” he added.
Focus on Practical Civic Participation
The organisers said the dialogue will focus on practical issues surrounding governance, public policy, civic participation and community leadership.
Rather than adopting a conventional lecture format, the event is expected to provide an interactive platform where participants can ask questions, raise concerns and exchange ideas on how young people can contribute meaningfully to their communities and the wider democratic process.
The gathering is expected to bring together student leaders, youth advocates, young professionals, civil society actors and other community stakeholders.
Diverse Voices to Lead Conversation
The dialogue will feature contributions from personalities with backgrounds in youth development, faith, social impact, student welfare and grassroots leadership.
Among those expected to participate are Remi Odunsi, Founder of the Remi Odunsi Organization, whose work focuses on youth development and social impact; Pastor Seyi Osanyinbi, Lead Pastor of Power & Glory Tabernacle, Akure; and Amb. Victor Adetolaju, MITPN, Founder and Executive Director of ASSWN.
The organisers said the involvement of speakers from different sectors is intended to provide participants with a broader perspective on the relationship between young people, governance, values and community development.
The initiative comes amid continued calls for greater youth participation in Nigeria’s democratic and governance processes.
According to the organisers, the goal is to equip participants with practical knowledge and encourage them to become constructive stakeholders in their campuses, workplaces and local communities.
Event Details
Event: Nigerian Youths and Governance: Your Place in Democracy Youth Dialogue
Date: Saturday, September 5, 2026
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Venue: Power & Glory Tabernacle, FUTA South Gate, Akure, Ondo State
Organisers: Association for Students’ Social Welfare Network (ASSWN) and Remi Odunsi Organization (ROO)
In Partnership With: Power & Glory Tabernacle, Akure
The organisers have invited students, youth organisations, civil society groups and other interested stakeholders to participate in the dialogue.
They said the event is intended to create a platform where young Nigerians can better understand democracy, identify their responsibilities as citizens and explore practical ways of contributing to positive change.
Media & Enquiries:
Association for Students’ Social Welfare Network (ASSWN)
Email: info@asswn.org