The South-West Voters Association of Nigerian Youths (SWAVANY) has endorsed Prince (Dr.) Adewole Adebayo, presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), as its preferred candidate for the 2027 presidential election.
The endorsement was announced on Wednesday at the Airport Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, following what the organisation described as a three-month internal consultation and assessment process.
According to SWAVANY, the process involved scrutiny of presidential manifestos as well as town-hall engagements with youths, students, artisans, market women, farmers and professionals across the six South-West states of Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo and Ekiti.
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The association, which described itself as a grassroots socio-political organisation with structures across the region, said its decision was informed by what it identified as pressing challenges confronting Nigerians, particularly young people.
Economic Hardship, Security Top Concerns
SWAVANY expressed concern over the rising cost of living, unemployment and poverty, saying young Nigerians require an enabling environment to create businesses and secure sustainable employment.
The organisation also listed insecurity, energy challenges, education, healthcare and youth participation in governance among the issues it wants the next administration to address.
On security, the group said it was seeking stronger investment in personnel, equipment and technology, as well as community-based security arrangements capable of protecting lives, property, farmers and businesses.
The association also raised concerns about Nigeria’s energy sector and the need to strengthen domestic refining capacity and improve electricity supply.
Why Adebayo Was Chosen
Explaining its choice, SWAVANY said it considered Adebayo’s proposed economic programme, particularly his stated ambition to create 30 million jobs through sectors including agriculture, housing, light manufacturing and the digital economy.
The organisation also cited the SDP candidate’s proposals on security, petroleum refining, governance, accountability and youth participation.
According to the group, Adebayo’s proposed approach to governance, including a stated commitment to greater representation of youths and women in government, influenced its decision.
SWAVANY further referenced Adebayo’s manifesto presentation in Ibadan, describing the location as significant because of the city’s historical role in the political development of the South-West.
Six Million Votes Target
Following the endorsement, the association said its coordinators and grassroots mobilisation structures across the South-West had been directed to commence political mobilisation ahead of the 2027 election.
The group said its target was to mobilise at least six million youth votes from the South-West for Adebayo and the SDP.
SWAVANY also appealed to youth organisations, student unions, artisans, market associations and other groups across the region to support its political position.
The association said it believes an Adebayo presidency would provide an opportunity to tackle insecurity, poverty and unemployment while promoting greater inclusion of young Nigerians in governance.
The endorsement was signed by Otunba Subomi Kolawole, President/Convener of SWAVANY, and Arowosomo Ayomide Aderayo, Director of Mobilization and Strategy.
The development comes as political groups and interest organisations across Nigeria continue to position themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections.
