A coalition of Ogun State students has called on the next administration to sustain and expand investment in education, bursaries and infrastructure, warning that progress made under Governor Dapo Abiodun must not be discarded due to political transition.
They insisted that education remains “one of the most powerful instruments for reducing inequality” and must be prioritised by whoever succeeds the current government in 2027.
The group, Yayi-Kudirat Students Campaign Organization, YAKSCO, made the appeal on Tuesday at a press conference held in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.
The convener, Oladimeji Uthman, noted that under the Abiodun-led administration, the state has continued to strengthen its position as one of Nigeria’s leading industrial and investment destinations, creating opportunities for employment, entrepreneurship and economic growth.
“Investments in educational facilities, scholarships, roads and community projects have direct implications for the quality of life of citizens. We believe the next government must consolidate what is working across the three senatorial districts while addressing emerging needs and expanding opportunities for young people.
“It is therefore our position that successful policies and developmental initiatives should not be discarded because of political transition. They should be consolidated, improved upon and expanded,” he said.
The group said it was backing the All Progressives Congress governorship ticket of Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as YAYI, and his running mate, Mrs Kudirat Adegunwa-Balogun, for the 2027 election, arguing that the state deserves leadership that can sustain development, attract investment, expand opportunities for young people and strengthen education and infrastructure.
According to the group, the decision followed consultations with campus stakeholders and was based on the candidates’ track record and capacity to build on existing development.
“We believe Senator Yayi has the legislative experience, political exposure and understanding of governance necessary to consolidate the achievements of the present administration and position Ogun State for even greater industrial development,” Uthman stated.
Ahead of the 2027 polls, the group said engagements with stakeholders across various campuses in the state had commenced, including voter registration awareness, voter education, sensitisation tours and constructive interactions with student communities.
“We are strategically rooted within campuses across Ogun State, with leaders and coordinators who have demonstrated records of leadership and mobilisation. Our job is to ensure students, many of whom are eligible voters, participate responsibly in the democratic process.”
He added that the organisation was committed to ensuring political engagement remains peaceful, issue-based and within the provisions of the law.
“Our members are expected to conduct themselves with discipline and respect for divergent political opinions,” Uthman added.
2027: Ogun students demand sustained investment in education, infrastructure