A youth-focused political organisation, Nigeria Youths in Politics (NYP), has announced plans to induct former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan into its Hall of Fame as part of activities marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.
The announcement was made in Abuja by the National President of the group, Blessing Oyefeso, during the unveiling of the NYP Democracy Day Conference scheduled for June 10.
The conference, themed “Now is the Time: Youths Building a Sustainable Democracy,” is aimed at encouraging greater youth participation in governance and strengthening democratic values ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Oyefeso said the event would provide a platform for interaction between experienced leaders and young Nigerians while promoting political engagement among the country’s youth population.
According to him, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who will serve as the Father of the Occasion, is expected to receive the title of “Custodian of Democracy and Inter-Generational Leadership.”
Former President Goodluck Jonathan, designated as Chairman of the Occasion, will be honoured with the award of “Guardian of Peace and Selfless Leadership Icon.”
Oyefeso said the recognition was intended to celebrate individuals whose contributions to national development and democratic governance could inspire younger generations to embrace integrity, patriotism and selfless leadership.
He added that renowned Pan-African scholar, Prof. Patrick Lumumba, would deliver the keynote address focusing on ethical leadership and the future of democracy in Africa.
The NYP president further disclosed that Seyi Tinubu would be recognised as the “Champion of Youth Political Inclusion” for his contributions toward youth engagement.
Other personalities expected to receive honours include former Minister of Information, Prof. Jerry Gana, businessman and philanthropist Prince Arthur Eze, and Chairman of Maton Engineering Nigeria Ltd., Mathew Tonlagha, for their roles in youth development and philanthropy.
Oyefeso noted that the conference would also witness the inauguration of the NYP National Working Committee, which would coordinate programmes aimed at increasing youth involvement in the electoral process and promoting accountability among political stakeholders ahead of the 2027 elections.
Speaking at the briefing, Chairman of the Planning Committee and NYP National Organising Secretary, Onyenze Virgwes, said the conference would focus on addressing challenges affecting Nigeria’s democracy, including political godfatherism and the imposition of candidates.
Virgwes stressed the importance of recognising leaders who have demonstrated commitment to democratic principles, citing Jonathan’s acceptance of the outcome of the 2015 presidential election as a notable example.
Also speaking, the National Secretary of the NYP Working Committee, Dr Duke Alamboye, expressed concern about what he described as declining democratic values within the political system.
He alleged that several young aspirants supported by the organisation were unable to secure party nominations due to challenges within political party structures.
According to him, the group is committed to promoting transparency, fairness and stronger democratic values, particularly among young political actors.
The Vice-Chairman of the organisation, Dr Ogenna Walter-Ekwubiri, called for increased youth participation in governance, urging young Nigerians to move beyond online discussions and become actively involved in the political process.
She disclosed that a bill advocating a minimum of 30 per cent youth representation in governance had successfully passed second reading in the House of Representatives.
Walter-Ekwubiri added that the organisation would embark on a nationwide consultation tour across the six geopolitical zones after the conference, beginning with Osun and Ekiti states, to mobilise youths against electoral violence and vote-buying while promoting issue-based political engagement.