Spotlight on young House of Assembly speakers
Nigeria’s political landscape is witnessing a shift as young leaders have emerged in different Houses of Assembly across the country, bringing fresh perspectives to governance. Their rise reflects growing youth engagement and a demand for progressive leadership. FAITH AJAYI explores the world of these young speakers, their impact on legislative affairs, and how they are reshaping political leadership
Muhammad Luggerewo, 40 (Gombe)
Muhammad Luggerewo, born on March 11, 1984, in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, is currently serving as the Speaker of the Gombe State House of Assembly while representing the Akko Central constituency.
Luggerewo began his education at Ngarannam Primary School in Maiduguri and continued at Brigadier Maimalari Day Secondary School. Upon completion, he pursued a Diploma in General Agriculture at Ramat Polytechnic, Maiduguri, graduating in 2004. In 2008, he enrolled at the University of Maiduguri, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics.
Before entering politics, Luggerewo had a career in banking, working with Guaranty Trust Bank Plc from June 2005 to June 2006 and later with Ecobank Nigeria Limited from 2007 to 2018. In 2019, he transitioned into politics, being elected as the member representing Akko Central in the Gombe State House of Assembly under the All Progressives Congress.
Before he was elected Speaker, he served as Chairman of the House Committee on Finance and Economic Planning. Luggerewo’s political journey took a significant turn on November 25, 2020, when he was elected Speaker of the House following the impeachment of Sadiq Kurba. His leadership was reaffirmed in June 2023 when he was re-elected as Speaker of the seventh Assembly.
In his role as Speaker, Luggerewo has been instrumental in modernising the legislative process. In December 2024, he announced the Assembly’s support for a bill on information and communication technology, which had already passed its first and second readings.
Luggerewo has also been a strong advocate for the rights of persons with disabilities. In August 2024, he committed to the swift passage of the Disability Protection Law and the establishment of a State Disability Commission Bill, aiming to improve the welfare and protection of people with disabilities in the state.
In September 2023, the election petition tribunal in Gombe State nullified Luggerewo’s election victory. Despite this setback, he continued to serve as Speaker and expressed his intention to appeal the tribunal’s decision. In November 2023, the Appeal Court upheld his election.
While in the House, Luggerewo has focused on various developmental projects aimed at improving the quality of life for his constituents. His efforts include advocating for agricultural development, given his background in agricultural economics, and supporting initiatives that promote education and infrastructure development within his constituency.
Beyond his duties in the state assembly, Luggerewo holds significant positions at the national level. He serves as the Zonal Vice Chairman for the North East in the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria and as the Chairman of the North East Speakers Forum. These roles position him as a key figure in regional legislative affairs, contributing to policy discussions and reforms that impact the broader northern region of Nigeria.
Jibril Falgore, 39 (Kano)
Jibril Falgore is serving as the Speaker of the 10th Kano State House of Assembly, representing the Rogo constituency. As a member of the New Nigeria Peoples Party, Falgore has been actively involved in legislative activities and governance in Kano State.
On June 13, 2023, Falgore was unanimously elected as Speaker of the Kano State House of Assembly during its 10th Assembly inauguration. His nomination was put forward by Lawal Hussaini of the Dala constituency and seconded by Musa Kachako of the Takai constituency, reflecting bipartisan support.
Under Falgore’s leadership, the Assembly has undertaken significant legislative actions. Notably, in May 2024, the House repealed the Kano Emirates Council Law of 2019, which had established three additional emirates—Gaya, Karaye and Rano—thereby consolidating the emirate structure back to its original form. This decision was made during a special plenary session presided over by Speaker Falgore, who invoked Order Seven Rule 3(A) to facilitate the process.
In September 2024, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission summoned Falgore; his deputy, Muhammad Butu-Butu; and three others in connection with an investigation into a N440m drug contract scandal involving the 44 local government areas of Kano State.
Also, in December 2024, the Assembly, under Falgore’s guidance, confirmed seven commissioner nominees submitted by the governor of the state, Abba Yusuf. The confirmation followed a screening process, underscoring the Assembly’s commitment to ensuring that qualified individuals assume key governmental roles.
As the representative of the Rogo constituency, Falgore has been involved in various initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of his constituents. His legislative efforts focus on addressing local issues and promoting development within the constituency.
In January 2025, Falgore celebrated the Appeal Court’s judgment in favour of Emir Sanusi, describing it as a victory for justice concerning the Kano throne.
Yakubu Danladi-Salihu, 39 (Kwara)
Yakubu Danladi-Salihu, born on May 31, 1985, in Gwanara town, Baruten Local Government Area of Kwara State, is known for his significant contributions to the state’s legislative processes.
Danladi-Salihu’s educational journey began at the Baruten Local Government Education Authority School in Gwanara, where he obtained his First School Leaving Certificate. He pursued secondary education at Baptist Grammar School, Okuta, and later at St. Anthony Secondary School, Ilorin. His pursuit of higher education led him to the Federal University of Technology, Minna, where he earned a Bachelor of Engineering degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering.
Between 2010 and 2018, Danladi-Salihu worked at the Federal University of Technology, Minna. This period provided him with valuable experience and the opportunity to further his education, culminating in his engineering degree.
In 2019, he ventured into politics, contesting the Ilesha-Gwanara State Constituency seat in the Kwara State House of Assembly under the All Progressives Congress. His successful election marked the beginning of his legislative career.
At the age of 34, during his first term, Danladi-Salihu was unanimously elected as the Speaker of the ninth Kwara State House of Assembly on June 11, 2019. His leadership was characterised by a focus on transparency and accountability.
Demonstrating his constituents’ confidence in his leadership, Danladi-Salihu was re-elected in 2023 to represent the Ilesha-Gwanara State Constituency. Subsequently, he was re-elected as Speaker of the 10th Assembly on June 13, 2023, continuing his role in steering the legislative agenda of the state.
Under Danladi-Salihu’s leadership, the Kwara State House of Assembly has undertaken significant legislative actions. After one year in office during his second term, it was reported during his anniversary that a total of nine bills and 20 motions had been passed. In September 2023, Danladi-Salihu was elected Chairman of the All Progressives Congress Conference of Speakers.
In November 2024, the Assembly called for enhanced security measures at waterworks across the state to prevent vandalism, reflecting his commitment to safeguarding public infrastructure.
In January 2025, the Assembly passed the 2025 budget proposal, increasing it by N44.33bn to a total of N584.69bn. This adjustment underscores the Assembly’s dedication to addressing the developmental needs of Kwara State.
As a representative of the Ilesha-Gwanara Constituency, Danladi-Salihu has been proactive in addressing local issues. In January 2024, he led a delegation to resolve a communal dispute in the Chikanda community, advocating for peaceful coexistence between the Yoruba and Baruba ethnic groups.
In November 2023, Danladi-Salihu assured citizens that the Assembly would prioritise their interests in deliberations concerning the Local Government Amendment Law, reaffirming his commitment to democratic principles.
Adewale Egbedun, 39 (Osun)
Born on June 29, 1985, in Osun State, Adewale Egbedun is the Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly. His journey from education to entrepreneurship and eventually into politics reflects a commitment to public service and community development.
Egbedun’s educational journey began at the Federal Polytechnic Offa Staff Secondary School, where he completed his secondary education. He furthered his studies at the University of East London, United Kingdom, earning a degree that equipped him for future endeavours. Transitioning into the professional realm, Egbedun ventured into entrepreneurship, focusing on the importation of vehicles and heavy equipment. He also served as the Chief Executive Officer of Savis Construction Limited, based in Osogbo, Osun State.
In 2023, Egbedun entered the political arena as a member of the Peoples Democratic Party. He contested and won the seat to represent the Odo-Otin State Constituency in the Osun State House of Assembly. His election marked the beginning of his legislative career and a new chapter in his commitment to public service.
On June 6, 2023, at the age of 38, Egbedun was elected as the Speaker of the eighth Osun State House of Assembly. His emergence as Speaker was notable, especially as a first-term lawmaker. In his acceptance speech, Egbedun emphasised the importance of collaboration among his colleagues to foster a progressive legislative environment. He outlined priorities focusing on improving workers’ welfare, advancing infrastructural development, and enhancing the quality of life for the people of the Osun State.
Under Egbedun’s leadership, the Osun State House of Assembly has undertaken significant legislative actions. In November 2024, the Assembly screened and confirmed nominees for statutory boards, including the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission, the Osun Judicial Service Commission, the Osun Civil Service Commission, and the Osun Assembly Service Commission. Egbedun highlighted that this exercise was necessary to fill vacancies created by the dissolution of previous boards and to ensure the smooth functioning of state institutions.
In December 2024, Governor Ademola Adeleke presented the 2025 budget proposal to the House. Egbedun played a pivotal role in facilitating discussions aimed at aligning the budget with the state’s developmental goals, reflecting his commitment to fiscal responsibility and sustainable development.
As the representative of the Odo-Otin State Constituency, Egbedun has been proactive in addressing the needs of his constituents. His initiatives have focused on improving local infrastructure, enhancing educational facilities, and promoting economic development within the constituency. Egbedun’s approach emphasises community engagement and participatory governance, ensuring that the voices of his constituents are heard in the legislative process.
In early 2025, Egbedun continued to advocate for policies aimed at improving the socio-economic conditions of Osun State residents. His leadership in the Assembly has been characterised by efforts to pass legislation that supports economic growth, social welfare, and infrastructural development. He remains committed to fostering a collaborative relationship between the legislative and executive branches of government to achieve the state’s objectives.
Adebo Ogundoyin, 38 (Oyo)
Adebo Ogundoyin, born on February 17, 1987, in Ibadan, Oyo State, has emerged as a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, particularly in Oyo State. His journey from education to entrepreneurship and, subsequently, into politics underscores his commitment to public service and community development. He represents Ibarapa East Constituency in Oyo State, and he serves as the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly. He pursued higher education at Babcock University, where he studied Agronomy. After completing his degree and the mandatory one-year National Youth Service Corps scheme, he proceeded to London, UK, for further studies. During this time, he co-managed a record label with Nigerian popular singer, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, and together they co-managed the artiste, Dremo. His involvement in the entertainment industry continued until 2018, when he was elected into the Assembly.
He later ventured into agribusiness, establishing himself as an agronomist and entrepreneur. His professional endeavours provided him with a solid foundation in business management and community engagement.
The sad demise of Ogundoyin’s father—Adeseun Ogundoyin— a renowned industrialist and philanthropist, in 1991, left a significant legacy in Ibarapa East. This legacy inspired Adebo’s foray into politics. In 2018, he contested and won the by-election to represent the Ibarapa East Constituency in the Oyo State House of Assembly under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party. His election was seen as a continuation of his family’s dedication to public service.
On June 10, 2019, he was unanimously elected as the Speaker of the ninth Oyo State House of Assembly, making him one of the youngest individuals to hold such a position in Nigeria at the age of 32. His leadership was characterised by a focus on youth empowerment, legislative transparency, and infrastructural development.
In August 2019, he played a key role in passing a bill that added four new ministries to the existing eight. While making the announcement, he noted, “The additional ministries will boost service delivery by the Governor Seyi Makinde administration; we want to improve productivity in all areas of governance.”
Demonstrating effective leadership and earning the trust of his constituents, Ogundoyin was re-elected in 2023 to represent Ibarapa East. Subsequently, on June 14, 2023, he was re-elected as the Speaker of the 10th Oyo State House of Assembly, marking a historic second consecutive term in this role.
Under Ogundoyin’s stewardship, the Oyo State House of Assembly has undertaken significant legislative actions aimed at enhancing governance and societal welfare. In December 2024, he emphasised the importance of integrating technology into legislative processes to improve oversight functions and ensure accountability. This initiative reflects his commitment to modernising legislative practices and promoting transparency.
As a representative of the Ibarapa East Constituency, Ogundoyin has been proactive in addressing local issues. He has facilitated various community development projects, including improvements in education, healthcare, and infrastructure. His efforts have been directed toward uplifting the socio-economic status of his constituents and ensuring that the dividends of democracy are felt at the grassroots level.
In September 2023, Ogundoyin was elected as the Chairman of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria. This position underscores his peers’ recognition of his leadership abilities and provides him with a broader platform to influence legislative practices across the country.
Gabriel Dewan, 32 (Plateau)
Gabriel Dewan, born in 1993, hails from Pankshin North in Plateau State. His early life and educational background remain largely private, but his emergence in the political arena has been both swift and impactful.
In the 2023 general elections, Dewan contested and won the seat to represent Pankshin North State Constituency in the Plateau State House of Assembly under the Young Progressives Party. His victory was notable, given his youth and the relatively recent establishment of the party in Nigeria’s political landscape.
On November 21, 2023, the Plateau State House of Assembly witnessed significant leadership changes. The then-Speaker, Moses Sule, and his deputy, Gwottson Fom, tendered their resignations, citing personal reasons and the need for stability within the state’s political environment. Following those resignations, Gabriel Dewan was elected as the new Speaker of the 10th Assembly at the age of 30, making him one of the youngest individuals to hold such a position in Nigeria.
Upon assuming the role of Speaker, Dewan pledged to provide purposeful and focused leadership. He emphasised his commitment to reuniting Plateau citizens amidst ongoing political challenges and assured that his leadership would be characterized by fairness and inclusivity.
In April 2024, Dewan oversaw the swearing-in of nine out of the 16 All Progressives Congress members who had been declared winners by the Appeal Court. This move was seen as a step toward strengthening the legislative framework and ensuring that all constituencies were duly represented in the Assembly.
As the representative for Pankshin North, Dewan has been proactive in addressing the needs of his constituents. He has initiated various community development projects aimed at improving infrastructure, education, and healthcare services. His approach to governance emphasises grassroots engagement, ensuring that the voices of his constituents are heard and their needs are addressed.
In September 2024, Dewan swore in the remaining five APC lawmakers, completing the legislative assembly’s composition. This action was pivotal in fostering a more inclusive and representative legislative process.
