Youth Leaders Urge Lagos Philanthropist To Join Politics

A group of youths from the Egbeda-Alimosho community in Lagos State has called on renowned philanthropist and businessman, Mr. Ilyas Abubakri Olanrewaju, to venture into politics.

The youths cited his long-standing commitment to community development, youth empowerment, and education support.

The youths made the call during a courtesy visit to Olanrewaju in Abuja yesterday.
They expressed their appreciation for his quiet but consistent humanitarian contributions.

Leading the delegation, Mr. Ajayi Badmus, praised Olanrewaju’s selfless acts, describing him as a “beacon of hope” and “a silent achiever” whose efforts have positively touched countless lives across the densely

populated Egbeda-Alimosho area.

“We have come not just to say thank you, but to plead with you to consider taking a political role to represent us. You have demonstrated competence in business and compassion in giving back; it’s time to bring that experience into governance for the good of our people,” Badmus said.

Olanrewaju, in his response, expressed gratitude for the recognition and encouragement, revealing that he had also been approached by other leaders regarding political participation.

“I am truly humbled by your visit and your message. Like you, some respected leaders have approached me on this same subject. I must say consultations are ongoing, and I have not made any final decision at this point,” he said.

While he did not confirm any immediate plans to enter politics, Olanrewaju reaffirmed his dedication to supporting youth and community advancement.

“My passion for the progress of our people remains unwavering. I will continue to play my part in supporting development and empowering young people in our community,” he assured.

Olanrewaju’s quiet philanthropy has earned him widespread respect both in Lagos and the Federal Capital Territory. From sponsoring students through school to funding small-scale businesses and supporting families in crisis, his interventions—largely unpublicized—have made a significant impact.

In opinion and feature pieces published following the visit, community voices painted a vivid picture of a man many consider a father figure and silent reformer.

Dele Ojo, a youth from Egbeda-Alimosho, wrote: “Mr. Olanrewaju does more doing than talking. He understands the needs of the people because he has always been among the people. If ever there was a time we needed someone like him to take up the mantle and bring his experience to governance, it is now.”

Similarly, journalist Adeyemi Oluwadamilola Rahmanu, in a moving feature titled “The Silent Giver — Unveiling the Heart of Ilyas Abubakri Olanrewaju,” described him as a man whose giving is “not an event but a way of life.”

“He doesn’t want to be celebrated. But those of us who have seen the impact of his kindness firsthand feel it is time people knew the kind of man Ilyas Abubakri Olanrewaju is,” Rahmanu wrote.