By Fakunle Sheriff Ekundayo
For followers and admirers of diplomatic Oluomo Ade Akanbi, popularly referred as Afonja, they've been enthralled by the birthday gift to one of their special breeds as he was appointed Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to Lagos State Governor on youth development.
Observers from different quarters would argue that Afonja's appointment was long overdue. This is justified by his numerous engagement and influence on Lagos State politics across the social and economic spheres, as observed among aspiring youths in the state.
His strategic globetrotting across the 57 local government areas and local council development areas with a mission to engage in diplomatic sessions with council chairmen has served as one of the political investments that earmarked his personality for national relevance.
Afonja understands the power of the media from a high octane point of views. His ability to dissect political issues and raise alarm for the ship of the All Progressives Congress ( APC) not to sink has gradually positioned him as a young and vibrant advocate in Lagos politics.
Like the Eagle, Afonja's foresightedness extols the virtue of strategic positioning. His widely acclaimed love for APC national leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, could be described as the golden principle that unlocked many paths of opportunities for him.
The diplomacy and strategic positioning of his annual program: Bola Tinubu Youth Summit (BTYS) has attracted millions of youths across Nigeria to embrace the Bola Ahmed Tinubu's philosophy, thereby stretching Afonja's personality cult beyond the realms of a social entrepreneur. He has over time conjure himself to serve as the change agent, the symbol of hope for the younger generation, and the 'Goal-getter' for many youths within the political culture of Lagos State APC.
And now, taking a cursory look beyond the market square that enliven the euphoria of Afonja's appointment as SSA; this is a signal that should be embraced wholeheartedly by productive youths in the State. His appointment, like some few others in recent times, must commence the evolution of youth ascendancy in governance.
Afonja's rise as SSA on youth development to Mr. Governor must put in motion, the spotlight on youth productivity in the grassroots.
Like Afonja, who is a round peg in a round hole, understands the terrain in the grassroots. His appointment should begin the new order for youth participation at the highest level of governance.
The new era of the ruling party in Lagos State must embrace the dynamism of survival by taking positive advantage of youth resourcefulness to sustain the legacy of the party.
Oluomo Ade Akanbi Afonja is our own. This appointment is a true reflection of the future and the direction with which the party is willing to adopt for posterity.
This opportunity to serve must open the door for loyal and passionate youths in the grassroots with ingenious skills to thrive. And there is no better way to uphold this discovery than with Afonja, as the new SSA on youth development.
Sheriff Fakunle Ekundayo
*is the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to Hon. Fatai Adekunle Ayoola, Executive chairman, Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area.*
*Sunday, September 27, 2020.*
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