By Benjamin Njoku

Amb. Umanu Elijah , a youth advocate, filmmaker, and grassroots mobilizer, has thrown his hat into the political ring, as he declares his intention to vie for the House of Representatives seat representing Etsako Federal Constituency, Edo State, in the 2027 general elections.

Umanu will be vying for the seat under the platform of National Democratic Congress,NDC.
His declaration has generated widespread reactions among youths and political stakeholders across Edo North, marking the formal entry of one of Etsako’s rising youth voices into mainstream politics.

Speaking at the declaration, Umanu said his ambition is driven by a commitment to purposeful representation, youth inclusion, human capital development, and grassroots-focused leadership.

“The time has come for a new generation of leadership that understands the struggles of the people and is willing to work directly for their advancement,” he said, adding “This movement is about service, development, and restoring hope to our people.”

Umanu has built his reputation through youth empowerment, community development, and humanitarian work via his NGO, Tudi Africa. The organization has run initiatives supporting education, mentorship, humanitarian outreach, and community engagement across Edo State and beyond.

One of its flagship programmes, the Teenage Educational and Mentorship Summit, prepares young people for adulthood, career development, leadership, and self-reliance. The summit has drawn students, professionals, mentors, and stakeholders committed to youth development.

He is also the Founder and CEO of Krystal Filmworks, a production company known for promoting African stories, talent development, and creative empowerment in the entertainment industry.

Beyond his humanitarian and creative work, Umanu has gained significant grassroots recognition through the “Etsako Must Shine” movement-a youth-driven platform focused on unity, empowerment, community development, political orientation, and a renewed vision for Etsako land.
What started as a slogan has grown into a movement embraced by students, artisans, creatives, and first-time voters who see it as a symbol of hope and youth inclusion in governance. The movement consistently promotes youth participation in leadership, self-development, community service, education, and economic opportunities.

Political observers say the momentum behind “Etsako Must Shine,” combined with Umanu’s grassroots engagement and humanitarian track record, could position him as one of the strongest youth contenders ahead of 2027.

Supporters have described his declaration as “a new chapter for youth participation in Etsako politics,” with many young people rallying behind his vision for inclusive governance and development on social media. His campaign is expected to focus on youth empowerment, job creation, education support, rural development, agriculture, entrepreneurship, infrastructure, and effective representation for Etsako Federal Constituency.

As the 2027 political season takes shape, Amb. Umanu Elijah’s entry positions him among the emerging figures seeking to redefine leadership in Edo North.