Alalubarika Conversation, led by Hon. Abdoulbaq Ladi Balogun, MD of LAFFERRY, marked a significant milestone as he celebrated his birthday by hosting the “Youth at the Leadership Table” discussion on X (formerly Twitter). The topic, “Desirable Disruption or Systematic Inclusion,” sparked insightful conversations among outstanding speakers, including Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende, Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, who delivered the keynote address. Other notable speakers included Rinsola Abiola, SSA to the President on Citizenship and Leadership; Ayisat Agbaje-Okunade, Executive Secretary of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy; Owolabi Falana, Permanent Board Member of LASUBEB, who served as the lead discussant; Mr. Idowu Aina, HOD Admin Ojo LG, discussant; and Adebambo Adeola, OAP. The session was expertly moderated by Oluwatomisin Badewole.

Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende, Commissioner for Youth and Social Development in Lagos State, emphasized the importance of youth participation in politics. He shared his personal experience of transitioning from disruption to systematic inclusion, highlighting the need for young people to be part of their ward’s political structure.

According to Ogunlende, “To be fully political, you need to be part of your ward. Attend ward meetings, be part of the party structure, and be involved in everything happening politically in your ward.” He stressed that identifying one’s ward and leaders is crucial for effective participation.

Ogunlende encouraged young people to disrupt the status quo in a desirable manner, sharing his own experience of doing so. He noted that disruption can either work for or against an individual but emphasized the importance of carving out one’s narrative.

He also highlighted the changing narrative in politics, with more young people being involved and challenging the status quo. “Gone are the days where you would just wake up and be able to obtain a ticket. Now, so many of us are being part of those conversations. All of us here are part of that conversation. We’re part of that journey.”

Ogunlende emphasized that systematic inclusion can be achieved through deliberate steps, such as building relationships and participating in ward activities. He noted that his own journey from disruption to inclusion has given him a platform to show his skills and what he can bring to the table.

The Commissioner also stressed the importance of youth inclusion and participation in politics, noting that it is a common yearning across Nigeria and Lagos State. He encouraged young people to build a portfolio of participation, which can ultimately lead to inclusion.

Ogunlende concluded that both desirable disruption and systematic inclusion can work hand in hand, depending on one’s journey and goals. He encouraged young people to find what works best for them and to be part of the conversations happening in their wards.

Mrs. Ayisat Agbaje-Okunade, Executive Secretary of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy, emphasized the importance of hard work, consistency, and passion for young people to succeed in public service. She shared her personal experience of facing rejections and setbacks before achieving her current position.

Agbaje-Okunade noted that nobody gives you a seat at the table, and you must hustle for it. She emphasized the need for young people to show passion and drive from the start, as it will keep them going until they achieve their goals.

She also highlighted the importance of serendipity, preparedness, and opportunity, stating that it takes just one person with influence to recognize your advantage and push you forward.

Agbaje-Okunade identified the barriers and challenges young people face in public service, including the same challenges women face in government, such as limited representation and opportunities. She emphasized the need for intentional disruption to address these challenges.

The Executive Secretary encouraged young people to be consistent in their passion, drive, and integrity, and to put in the work to achieve their goals. She concluded that substance matters, and young people must show their abilities and intellectual skills to succeed in public service.

Owolabi Falana, Permanent Board Member of Lagos State SUBEB, stated the need for systematic inclusion of young people in leadership positions. He noted that Nigeria had more young leaders during the military era, but this trend has not continued in the democratic dispensation.

Falana cited examples of young leaders from the past, including General Yakubu Gowon, General Murtala Mohammed, and General Olusegun Obasanjo. However, he noted that the current democratic dispensation has not seen a similar level of youth inclusion.

Falana attributed this to a lack of systematic inclusion, which he defined as the deliberate effort to include young people in leadership positions. He applauded the Lagos State Government for its efforts in systematic inclusion, citing his own appointment as the youngest ever board member of SUBEB.

Falana called on young people to be active participants in decision-making processes, including joining political parties and volunteering for community development associations. He expressed optimism that the story will change in the next five to 10 years, particularly with the increased consciousness and participation of young people in politics.

Falana emphasized that young people must play their part in bringing about this change, leveraging on initiatives like the “Not Too Young to Run” law, which reduced the entry level for various offices. He concluded that the story will continue to change, but it will not change if young people don’t play their part.