Ahmadiyya leader urges youths to rally behind Adebayo for Nigeria’s rebirth
By Henry Nnaemeka
The Amir and National Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at of Nigeria, Barrister Alatoye Abdulazeez, has called on Nigerian youths to organise politically and rally behind credible leadership, identifying Adewole Adebayo as a potential vehicle for national transformation.
Speaking in an interview, Abdulazeez said the country’s progress would largely depend on the ability of young people to move beyond ethnic, religious and monetary considerations, and unite around a common purpose.
He noted that while several youthful candidates had emerged in previous elections, their inability to build strong alliances allowed entrenched political forces to retain dominance.
According to him, Adebayo, a lawyer and businessman who contested on the platform of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), represents a viable alternative—if backed by a coordinated youth movement.
“If the younger generation is convinced that Adewole Adebayo can deliver, they should organise, align with him and encourage others across ethnic divides to see themselves as one,” Abdulazeez said.
The cleric described Nigeria as being in a “storming stage” of nationhood, where persistent ethnic and regional divisions continue to undermine development. He warned that without the emergence of a unifying national ethos, the country may struggle to achieve its full potential.
He also cautioned youths against vote-buying and divisive politics, urging them instead to focus on long-term nation-building and principled engagement.
“We must move from where we are to the next stage; otherwise, we will remain stuck in the same cycle,” he added.
Reiterating the Ahmadiyya motto, “Love for All, Hatred for None,” Abdulazeez stressed that religion should serve as a tool for peace and cohesion, not division. He condemned acts of violence and terrorism carried out in the name of faith, describing them as contrary to Islamic teachings.
On governance, he acknowledged the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, but stated that more work is needed in critical sectors, particularly power and economic management.
Abdulazeez concluded by urging Nigerians—especially young people—to take collective responsibility for the country’s future through unity, discipline and active participation in the political process.
“Leadership is not just about those in office,” he said. “It is also about those who choose them.”
