RismadarVoice Reporters
October 15, 2026
The Royal Ambassadors of the Nigerian Baptist Convention have warned young Nigerians against accepting financial inducements from politicians to engage in ballot box snatching, voter intimidation and other forms of electoral violence ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The organisation’s Marshal, Bitebo Eregoba, issued the warning during a briefing at the Baptist Church, Ibara, Abeokuta, Ogun State, where he announced plans to train more than 2,000 youths at its forthcoming National Leadership Training Conference.
Eregoba urged youths to resist attempts by political actors to recruit them for activities capable of disrupting elections, warning that those involved could face prosecution and other consequences.
He said young people were often exposed to the immediate risks of electoral violence while those who encouraged such activities might escape responsibility.
According to him, financial inducements should not persuade youths to jeopardise their future or undermine the country’s democratic process.
Eregoba also urged parents, religious leaders and community stakeholders to strengthen their guidance and supervision of young people, particularly as political activities intensify ahead of the elections.
He encouraged families to pay attention to changes in young people’s behaviour, associations and sources of income while providing the support needed to help them make responsible decisions.
The marshal explained that the forthcoming National Leadership Training Conference, themed “Divine Companionship,” would focus on leadership development, discipline, mentorship, spiritual growth and responsible citizenship.
He said the annual gathering would bring together Royal Ambassadors from across Nigeria to assess the organisation’s activities, identify challenges and develop strategies for improving its programmes.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo and the Toluwade of Akinale, Oba Oluseyi Adediran, are expected to attend as special guests of honour.
Eregoba described the Royal Ambassadors as a Christian organisation dedicated to developing young men who demonstrate integrity, serve their communities and contribute positively to national development.
He explained that its activities extended beyond religious instruction to addressing social challenges affecting young Nigerians.
According to him, the organisation has established Anti-Social Vices Clubs in states where it operates, with activities extending to local government areas.
The clubs focus on discouraging drug abuse, indiscipline and other harmful practices while promoting responsible behaviour among young people.
Eregoba said the organisation collaborates with relevant government institutions, including the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Nigeria Police Force, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, and National Orientation Agency.
He added that schools, community leaders and civil society organisations also support its youth development initiatives.
The marshal identified poverty, unemployment, inadequate parental attention and limited mentorship opportunities as challenges requiring greater attention from families, religious institutions and society.
He stressed that young people needed guidance and supportive relationships to navigate social pressures and make informed decisions.
Eregoba said the conference would therefore emphasise the importance of mentorship, spiritual companionship and personal discipline in developing responsible future leaders.
He also commended the Ogun Baptist Conference, led by Coun. Moses Okunola, for agreeing to host the national gathering in Abeokuta.
The organisation maintained that its youth development programmes would continue to promote peaceful participation in civic activities, responsible leadership and positive contributions to Nigerian society.
