Paragraph 1: The Call to Action for Nigerian Youth in Politics
Speaker Tajudeen Abbas of the House of Representatives has issued a resounding call to Nigerian youth, urging them to actively participate in the nation’s political processes. Speaking at the unveiling of the “Take Action Campaign” in Abuja, themed “Awakening a generation: Youthful leadership for a new Nigeria,” Abbas emphasized the crucial role young people must play in shaping the country’s political trajectory. He stressed that youth are not merely the future, but the present, and their numerical strength should be reflected in governance. The campaign, spearheaded by the Youth in Parliament Forum, seeks to empower young Nigerians to assume leadership positions in politics and public service.
Paragraph 2: Addressing the Gap Between Youth Population and Political Influence
Abbas lamented the stark disparity between the demographic dominance of Nigerian youth, who constitute over 60 percent of the population, and their limited influence in decision-making processes. He challenged the youth to move beyond mere observation and actively engage in shaping the changes they desire. He pointed to legislative reforms like the Not Too Young to Run Act as evidence of the National Assembly’s commitment to creating space for youth participation. The election of 26-year-old Ibrahim Mohammed from Kebbi State to the House serves as a tangible example of the possibilities that arise when the political system becomes more inclusive.
Paragraph 3: Rethinking the “Japa” Syndrome and Embracing Civic Engagement
Addressing the “Japa” phenomenon, the increasing trend of young Nigerians emigrating in search of better opportunities abroad, Abbas urged a reconsideration of this exodus as a permanent solution. He emphasized that even with foreign passports, Nigerians in diaspora remain second-class citizens and cannot escape their Nigerian identity. He appealed to the youth to recognize their birthright and invest their energies in their homeland. He called on them to move beyond online criticism and actively engage in policy monitoring, questioning, and constructive noise-making to effect change.
Paragraph 4: Launching the “Take Action Campaign” and Its Vision for a Youth-Led Nigeria
Tony Nwulu, Director General of the Youth in Parliament Forum, underscored the urgency of youth participation in governance. He described the Take Action Campaign as a youth-driven movement dedicated to transforming Nigeria’s political landscape by empowering young people to run for office and take control of their future. Nwulu envisions the campaign as the catalyst for a new political consciousness, one where young Nigerians are at the forefront of legislation, innovation, and governance.
Paragraph 5: Endorsements and Examples of Youth Inclusion from State Governments
The Take Action Campaign has garnered support from prominent political figures, including Kogi State Governor Ahmed Ododo, who described the campaign as a natural progression from the Not Too Young to Run movement. Governor Ododo, represented by Moses Okezie-Okafor, highlighted his own political journey as a product of increased youth opportunities, having served in the state’s executive council across two administrations. He cited Kogi State’s unique gender inclusion model, where all local government deputy chairpersons are women, as a testament to creating balanced political structures. Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma also aligned with the campaign’s objectives, emphasizing the importance of youth empowerment and noting that over 40 percent of his state cabinet is composed of young people.
Paragraph 6: The Campaign’s Call for Continuous Engagement and Legacy Building
Commissioner for Special Duties in Imo State, Dr Chika Abazu, a beneficiary of the Not Too Young to Run movement, emphasized the timeliness of the Take Action Campaign and its alignment with the youth-inclusive policies of Imo State. He stressed that for the campaign to be genuinely meaningful, those who gain leadership positions through it must commit to leaving the door open for future generations of young leaders. The overarching message resonates with the need for continuous engagement, legacy building, and a shared responsibility in building a new Nigeria driven by the energy and vision of its youth.
