LAGOS DEPUTY SPEAKER URGES YOUTHS TO PREPARE FOR LEADERSHIP

The Deputy Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mojisola Meranda, has urged young Nigerians to focus on developing skills and solving problems rather than pursuing political positions for their own sake.

Meranda gave the advice during a mentorship session organised by the Chairman of Igbogbo/Baiyeku Local Council Development Area, Olalekan Aroyewun, in Lagos. She said leadership should be measured by the impact a person makes, not the office they occupy.

Responding to a participant who expressed interest in becoming a politician, the deputy speaker said politics should not be treated as a profession. She encouraged young people to first build careers, acquire useful skills and prepare themselves to contribute meaningfully to society.

Meranda also advised youths to embrace technology and artificial intelligence as the economy continues to change. She cautioned them against confusing political access or public visibility with genuine leadership.

The lawmaker urged participants to maintain their values and focus on creating solutions to problems around them.

Aroyewun, who hosted the programme, said the mentorship initiative was designed to prepare young people for leadership by developing character, competence, discipline and empathy.

The programme also featured empowerment grants for participants, while Ikorodu Federal Constituency lawmaker Babajimi Benson encouraged the youths to pursue entrepreneurship and create jobs.