SWAVANY says policy assessment and grassroots consultations informed decision; group plans extensive mobilisation

LAGOS — October 7, 2026: The South-West Voters Association of Nigerian Youths (SWAVANY) has selected the presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Prince (Dr.) Adewole Adebayo, as its preferred candidate for the 2027 presidential election.

The group announced the decision on Wednesday at the Airport Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, after what it described as a three-month process involving consultations, manifesto scrutiny and engagements with various groups across the South-West.

SWAVANY said the exercise covered Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo and Ekiti States, with consultations involving youths, students, artisans, market women, farmers and professionals.

According to the association, the assessment focused on the character, competence, capacity and policy proposals of leading presidential contenders.

Group Raises Concerns Over Nigeria’s Challenges

SWAVANY said economic hardship, unemployment, insecurity, energy problems, education, healthcare and limited youth participation in governance were among the major issues considered during the consultation.

The association argued that young Nigerians need an environment that supports entrepreneurship, employment and economic participation.

It also called for stronger security measures, including improved personnel, equipment, technology and community-based security structures.

Adebayo’s Policy Proposals Highlighted

The association said the SDP candidate’s economic agenda was one of the major reasons for its decision.

SWAVANY highlighted Adebayo’s stated plan to create 30 million jobs through investments in agriculture, housing, light manufacturing and the digital economy.

The group also cited his proposals concerning poverty reduction, domestic petroleum refining, security, accountability and the rule of law.

Youth and women’s inclusion in government was another issue highlighted by the association.

SWAVANY said the candidate’s stated commitment to increasing the participation of young people and women in government aligned with its demand for broader representation.

Group Sets Six-Million-Vote Mobilisation Goal

Following the declaration, SWAVANY directed its grassroots structures across the South-West to commence mobilisation for Adebayo and the SDP.

The organisation said it hopes to mobilise at least six million youth votes across the region.

Its state, zonal, local government and ward structures, alongside canvassers and polling-unit mobilisers, are expected to participate in the mobilisation effort.

The group also appealed to student unions, artisans, market associations, youth organisations and other stakeholders to join its campaign for voter engagement.

Endorsement Comes Ahead of 2027 Poll

The endorsement adds to the political activities taking place across Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections.

SWAVANY’s six-million-vote figure remains a stated mobilisation target of the association and does not constitute a guaranteed electoral outcome.

The endorsement was signed by Otunba Subomi Kolawole, President/Convener of SWAVANY, and Arowosomo Ayomide Aderayo, Director of Mobilization and Strategy.