A student leader at the University of Ilorin, Yisa-Apata Taofeek, has convened the 2026 African Union Simulation Summit, bringing together students to debate governance, diplomacy and continental integration in line with the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

The summit, held at the Faculty of Law Auditorium of the University of Ilorin, attracted 78 delegates representing the 55 member states of the African Union.

The event, themed “Africa Agenda 2063 in Action: Simulating Policies for a United, Integrated and Prosperous Africa,” was organised in honour of the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole (SAN).

Representing the Vice-Chancellor, the Dean of Student Affairs, Dr. Alex Akanmu Morenikeji, described the summit as a commendable initiative for developing future African leaders.

He urged young people to embrace the aspirations of the African Union’s Agenda 2063, stressing that sustainable development across the continent requires visionary, innovative, and actively engaged youth. He also urged participants to position themselves as catalysts for good governance, peace, and continental integration through responsible leadership and informed policy engagement.

During the summit, delegates simulated a session of the African Union Assembly, debating the adoption of a single African passport and a visa-free movement policy across member states.

While participants expressed support for greater continental integration through freer movement, they stressed the need for stronger border management, enhanced regional security cooperation, intelligence sharing and improved security infrastructure before such a policy could be fully implemented.

Speaking at the event, the convener, Yisa-Apata Taofeek, said the summit was designed to expose young people to governance, diplomacy, negotiation and public policy.

According to him, Africa’s future depends on a generation of informed and engaged young leaders capable of addressing the continent’s challenges through dialogue and consensus-building.

“The future of Africa will be shaped by leaders who are willing to engage with complex challenges, build consensus and develop innovative solutions. Through this summit, we sought to provide a platform where young people can practise leadership, diplomacy and responsible citizenship,” he said.

Taofeek added that the initiative aligns with the University of Ilorin’s “1:10:500” vision by promoting leadership development, innovation and global relevance among students.

A highlight of the event was the presentation of an Award of Honour to Prof. Egbewole in recognition of his leadership, commitment to academic excellence and support for student-driven initiatives.

The summit was supported by the International Forum for Peace and Diplomacy, the University of Ilorin Model United Nations and Toyes Tech.

Participants described the programme as a valuable platform for leadership development, diplomacy and civic engagement, while organisers called for greater youth participation in governance and stronger collaboration among African countries to advance the goals of Agenda 2063.