2027: Abuja Young Traders Endorse Olawepo-Hashim for President

As the race for the 2027 general elections gradually takes shape, young traders in Abuja have thrown their weight behind businessman and political figure Mr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, endorsing him as their preferred candidate for president.

The endorsement came during a gathering at Wuse Market, where hundreds of traders, artisans, and youth leaders converged to express their support. According to them, Olawepo-Hashim represents a new vision for Nigeria, one that promises inclusive leadership, job creation, and a fresh approach to governance.

Speaking at the event, the coordinator of the traders’ forum, Musa Abdullahi, explained that the endorsement was not just symbolic but a strong demand for credible leadership. He said that young people and market traders have been at the receiving end of poor governance, high inflation, and lack of access to affordable loans. He added that Olawepo-Hashim’s background as an entrepreneur and policy advocate makes him well-suited to champion economic reforms that will directly benefit ordinary Nigerians.

Another trader, Maryam Yusuf, noted that the cost of doing business has risen sharply in the last few years. She explained that many young traders are unable to expand their businesses because of high-interest rates and multiple taxes. She said the group believes that Olawepo-Hashim has the political will to introduce policies that will ease business operations and improve trade in markets across the country.

Olawepo-Hashim, who contested the presidency in 2019 and has remained active in national politics, welcomed the endorsement, describing it as a call to duty. He promised to prioritize youth empowerment, access to credit facilities, education, and security if given the opportunity to serve in 2027. He emphasized that Nigeria cannot continue to rely on old approaches, adding that his mission is to build a nation where young people are partners in progress rather than victims of hardship.

Political analysts say the endorsement by Abuja traders is a significant boost to Olawepo-Hashim’s campaign, even though the presidential race remains wide open. They argue that gaining early support from grassroots groups could play a decisive role in shaping the momentum ahead of 2027.

The traders further urged other youth groups across the country to rally behind Olawepo-Hashim, insisting that only fresh leadership can address Nigeria’s pressing challenges, including unemployment, inflation, and insecurity. For them, the choice of endorsement is about hope for a better Nigeria rather than partisan loyalty.

As Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 elections, endorsements such as this highlight the growing demand for new leadership that prioritizes everyday citizens. Whether Olawepo-Hashim can convert this endorsement into broader nationwide support remains to be seen, but one thing is clear, many young Nigerians are ready to make their voices heard in the coming political season.