Nigeria’s Akerele elected Speaker of African Youth Development Parliament

Wealth Akerele has made history by becoming the first Nigerian elected as Speaker of the African Youth Development Parliament (AYDP).

He has pledged to help young people reach greater heights in their respective roles within the global community while also working to prevent any acts of criminality that could tarnish their image.

In his statement, Akerele emphasised, “As the youth are the future leaders of our countries, it is essential for us to abstain from drug addiction and uphold the values that will help us achieve greater success.”

In a statement released to the press in Kano, he expressed his determination to instill in young people the idea of being good ambassadors for their countries, regardless of the responsibilities they are entrusted with.

He also expressed gratitude to God and dedicated his success to Nigeria’s leadership, stating, “My victory marks a historic moment for Nigerian youth leadership at the continental level.”

” He also added that ” I dedicate this victory to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda”.

It will be recalled that he emerged the Speaker following a keenly contested transitional election held in Accra, Ghana, on 23 July 2025.

There , Mr Akerele secured 35 votes, defeating his Senegalese opponent Nodinel Jegangni, who polled 13 votes.

” I give thanks to God Almighty, my family members, and I dedicate this victory to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.” he said

“I also appreciate my country home, Ondo State, and thank the youthful Governor of Ondo State, His Excellency, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, for getting the youths involved in governance.

“I equally thank the Honourable Minister for Youths Development, the Minister for Interior who also hails from my state, and the unwavering support of Hon. Omoyofunmi Henry, Commissioner for Youth and Sport in Ondo State”, he said

The African Youth Development Parliament is a pan-African body designed to give young leaders a platform to influence policies, advocate for youth participation in governance, and strengthen regional cooperation among African states.

The 7th Transitional Election of the Parliament drew representatives from various African countries, reflecting the growing role of young people in governance across the continent.

The statement read: “With Akerele’s election, Nigeria joins the league of African countries contributing significantly to continental youth politics.”

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