Comrade Dauda Advocates For Youth-Driven Nationhood At Citizen-Focused Governance Dialogue 

OLALEKAN ONI 

The Executive Chairman of Ikeja Local Government, Comrade Akeem Olalekan Dauda, has reaffirmed the critical role of Nigerian youths in nation-building, urging them to embrace responsibility, service, and active citizenship as tools for sustainable national development.

Speaking as the guest speaker at the 2nd Annual Citizen-Focused Governance Dialogue held yesterday at the Muson Center, Lagos, Comrade Dauda delivered a compelling and experience-driven address themed “Citizenship, Not Spectatorship”.

Drawing from his personal journey in leadership and public service, he emphasized that true development is driven by citizens who are committed to contributing their quota to national progress without prioritizing immediate personal gains.

According to him, “Young people must understand that nationhood thrives when citizens choose consistent service over selfish expectations. Personal benefits will naturally flow from selfless commitment to humanity and community development”.

He encouraged the youth to remain focused despite prevailing national challenges, stressing that resilience, patriotism, and discipline remain the strongest pillars of growth, both for individuals and for the nation.

The dialogue, organized by The Nigerian Factor in collaboration with ipComm and Lagos Talks 91.3 FM, brought together civic leaders, policy thinkers, and governance advocates to discuss practical pathways for improving citizen engagement in governance.

Comrade Dauda reiterated that governance is a collective responsibility and called on the youth to participate actively in democratic processes, volunteerism, community service, information sharing, and constructive dialoguee; actions he described as “the lifeblood of an accountable and progressive society”.

He also used the opportunity to challenge leaders at all levels to build systems that inspire hope, encourage youth inclusion, and promote meritocracy.

Present at the event with the Chairman were the Vice Chairman of Ikeja Local Government, the Chief of Staff, Chief (Mrs.) Funmibi Akinduro, Chief Soku, and several other notable personalities who came to support the impactful engagement.

The Ikeja LG Chairman further commended the organizers for sustaining the platform, noting that such dialogues are essential in shaping a responsible, informed, and participatory citizenry.