Youth Advocate Calls for Shift from Online Politics to Real Governance in Asa LG
A youth advocate, political voice and Business Tycoon from Asa Local Government, Sulyman Muhammad Kamildeen, has called on young people in the area to move beyond online political activism and take up more meaningful roles in governance and community development.
In his latest piece titled “The Giant Awake III: From Noise to Nation-Building,” the writer acknowledged what he described as a “noticeable shift” in the political atmosphere within Asa LG, noting that the space is gradually becoming more open and accommodating to youth participation.
According to him, increased engagement and a growing willingness among political actors to listen to fresh ideas signal a positive turn for the local government.
However, he warned that such progress must be properly utilized to avoid being misdirected.He emphasized that while more young people now have access to political circles, many have mistaken proximity to power for actual participation in governance.“Access without purpose is a distraction,” he stated, stressing that many youths remain close to decision-makers but are still excluded from real decision-making processes.
Kamildeen criticized the growing trend of youths engaging in what he described as “attack politics,” where individuals take on roles as defenders of political figures online, often silencing critics rather than contributing constructively to governance.
He argued that such behavior undermines democratic growth, noting that criticism plays a vital role in strengthening leadership and improving policies.“Critics are not enemies of progress; they are mirrors of governance,” he said, warning that a system that suppresses dissent risks stagnation.
The article further highlighted the need for a transition from online engagement to tangible impact, urging youths to focus on policy development, community initiatives, and accountability processes rather than social media battles.
He noted that the future of Asa LG would not be determined by online visibility but by actual contributions to development.“The future of Asa will not be shaped by who tweeted the most, but by who contributed the most,” he added.Kamildeen also cautioned young people against adopting the same political behaviors they once criticized, particularly as they begin to gain access and recognition within the system.
He urged them to remain consistent in their values and commitment to accountability, regardless of their proximity to power.The youth advocate called for a new generation of participants who are informed, solution-driven, and actively involved in governance processes, rather than merely serving as political supporters.
He also acknowledged the evolving political leadership in Asa LG, particularly under the influence of Prof. Shehu Abdulraheem Adaramaja, noting that the emerging environment presents a unique opportunity for youths to contribute meaningfully.
However, he posed a critical question: whether young people would utilize the opportunity for lasting impact or reduce it to mere political noise.
Kamildeen concluded by urging Asa youths to evolve from supporters to stakeholders, emphasizing the need for discipline, responsibility, and active participation in shaping the future of the local government.
His message reinforces a growing call for youth inclusion that goes beyond symbolism, focusing instead on competence, accountability, and sustainable development.
