Nollywood actor Olumide Oworu has opened up about his decision to venture into partisan politics, saying his motivation stems from a desire to influence policymaking and secure a better future for the next generation.
In a recent interview with Naija FM Lagos, the 31-year-old said he was compelled to step into the political arena because of what he described as Nigeria’s steady decline over the years.
“I decided to join politics because of how the country is going. I know how Nigeria was when I was younger, but now, things keep getting worse. And I want to start a family and raise my kids here,” Oworu said.
He explained that his interest in politics is rooted in the understanding that government policies directly affect every citizen, including himself.
According to him, being at the table where decisions are made is crucial if young Nigerians hope to shape outcomes that will impact their future.
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“I have to make sure that I try my best to be among the policymakers because whatever policy that is being enacted, it would ultimately affect me like every other common person,” he added.
Oworu also pointed to the aging political class as a factor influencing his involvement, noting that younger Nigerians will live longest with the consequences of decisions being made today.
The actor contested for a seat in the Lagos State House of Assembly, representing Surulere Constituency 1 under the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections. He lost to fellow actor-turned-lawmaker Desmond Elliott.
Despite the electoral setback, Oworu said his commitment to political participation remains firm, signalling that his journey in public service may only just be beginning.
For many young Nigerians watching from the sidelines, his transition from screen to politics reflects a growing desire among the country’s youth to move beyond commentary and take active roles in shaping governance.