By Prosper Mene
Pastor Mrs. Funke Awolowo, granddaughter of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, has expressed strong support for the political aspirations of young Nigerian politician Makanjuola Oluwafemi Emmanuel, urging the country to intentionally create space for a new generation of leaders.
In a message directed to the young aspirant, Pastor Awolowo described the inclusion of young people in politics as more than a slogan, stressing the need to deliberately empower emerging politicians who are prepared to contribute to the nation’s development.
According to her, Makanjuola has demonstrated himself across areas of modern governance and continues to show the passion and patriotism required to remain engaged in the struggle for a better Nigeria.
She noted that while some people of her generation may be becoming discouraged by the state of affairs in the country, young people like Makanjuola continue to serve as voices encouraging Nigerians to fight, speak up and remain relevant in the pursuit of national progress.
“We must intentionally enable the up and coming politicians,” Pastor Awolowo stated, adding that the young aspirant’s passion comes from a patriotic commitment to Nigeria.
She further expressed a desire to see more young people follow the path of active participation in governance, particularly those willing to challenge existing anomalies and work towards greater righteousness and accountability.
A WOMAN’S VOICE FOR A NEW GENERATION
For Women Times, Pastor Awolowo’s message is significant not only because of her family heritage, but also because it represents the voice of a woman encouraging greater participation by younger Nigerians in the political process.
Women have historically played important roles in shaping communities, institutions and political movements, and the call for intergenerational cooperation remains relevant as Nigeria considers the future of its leadership.
Pastor Awolowo’s message therefore goes beyond one political aspirant. It raises a broader question: How intentionally is Nigeria creating room for young people, particularly young women and men, to contribute meaningfully to governance?
She concluded her message to Makanjuola with a firm encouragement to continue moving forward, expressing confidence in his ability to pursue his political aspirations.
“Go forward, FEMI,” she wrote, ending with the message: “Where there is a will, the way opens of its own accord.”
Makanjuola is the Action Alliance candidate for the Federal House of Representatives in Oshodi-Isolo Constituency 2, Lagos State, where he has built his political message around a new generation of people-oriented and accountable leadership.
Pastor Awolowo’s message adds her voice to the growing conversation about youth participation, intergenerational leadership and the need to create space for a new generation in Nigerian politics.
