The Epe Youth Forum has expressed its support for Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, ahead of the 2027 elections, describing his years of service, experience and contribution to the development of Lagos as reasons why he deserves the support of Lagosians.
The forum said its position is based on Hamzat’s track record in public service and his involvement in major aspects of Lagos’ development over the years.
According to the Epe Youth Forum, Lagos is at an important stage of its development and needs experienced leadership that understands the complexity of managing one of Africa’s fastest-growing cities.
The forum noted that Hamzat has served Lagos across different administrations and has been involved in key areas including science and technology, works, infrastructure and governance.
It said his experience provides him with a strong understanding of the state’s development needs and the challenges that come with managing a rapidly growing population.
“We are supporting Dr. Kadri Hamzat because of his record, experience and understanding of Lagos. He has been part of the journey of this state for many years, and we believe that experience matters when Lagos is preparing for its next chapter,” the forum stated.
The Epe Youth Forum said Lagos has witnessed significant transformation in infrastructure, transportation, technology, urban development and other sectors, adding that the next phase requires leadership capable of building on existing progress while addressing areas that still need attention.
The forum said it is particularly important for young people across Lagos to participate actively in conversations about the future of the state.
It noted that young Lagosians are looking for leadership that will expand opportunities in education, employment, entrepreneurship, technology, skills development and innovation.
According to the forum, Lagos’ future cannot be separated from the future of its young population.
The Epe Youth Forum therefore encouraged young people in Epe and across Lagos to look beyond political sentiments and consider the experience, capacity and development record of those seeking to lead the state.
The forum also said communities outside the traditional metropolitan areas must remain part of Lagos’ development plans.
It identified Epe as one of the areas with significant potential for agriculture, tourism, housing, transportation, technology and economic development.
The forum said it would like to see greater opportunities for young people in Epe, particularly in skills acquisition, entrepreneurship, digital technology, education and employment.
However, it stressed that its support for Hamzat is based on his overall contribution and experience in Lagos, rather than being limited to projects in Epe.
“Epe is part of Lagos, and what happens in Lagos affects us. We want leadership that understands the entire state and can continue to move Lagos forward. For us, Hamzat’s years of experience and his contribution to Lagos make him a candidate worth supporting,” the forum said.
The Epe Youth Forum also praised the continuity of development efforts across different administrations in Lagos, noting that long-term development requires institutions and leaders who understand what has been achieved and what still needs to be done.
It urged Lagosians to pay attention to the issues that will shape the next phase of the state, including infrastructure, transportation, housing, education, healthcare, digital transformation, job creation and environmental sustainability.
The forum said the 2027 election presents an opportunity for Lagos residents to choose leadership based on competence, experience and a clear understanding of the state’s future.
It called on young people in Epe and other communities to participate in the democratic process and make their voices heard.
The Epe Youth Forum said it is prepared to mobilise young people around a message of continuity, development and responsible leadership ahead of the 2027 elections.
The forum concluded that Lagos needs leaders who understand where the state is coming from, recognise where it is today and have the experience to help shape where it is going.
“For us at the Epe Youth Forum, experience matters. Track record matters. Leadership matters. We believe Dr. Kadri Hamzat has demonstrated these qualities through his years of service to Lagos, and we are proud to support and recommend him as Lagos looks towards 2027 and the next chapter of its development,” the forum stated.
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