Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has called on Nigerian youths to actively participate in politics, urging them to use their numbers to influence governance.
Speaking at the launch of the Take Action Campaign in Abuja, themed “Awakening a Generation: Youthful Leadership for a New Nigeria”, Abbas, represented by the Chairman of the House Committee on Youth, said, “Youth are not just the future they are the present. They must reflect their numbers in leadership.”
The campaign, led by the Youth in Parliament Forum, aims to empower young Nigerians for leadership in politics and public service.
Abbas noted that although youth make up over 60% of Nigeria’s population, their political involvement remains low. He highlighted reforms like the Not Too Young to Run Act and the election of 26-year-old Hon. Ibrahim Mohammed as signs of progress.
He urged youth to resist the Japa mindset, saying, “Even with a blue passport, you’re still a second-class citizen abroad. This is your land take action, get involved, and demand change.”
Director General of the Youth in Parliament Forum, Tony Nwulu, said the campaign seeks to reshape Nigeria’s political landscape through youth-driven leadership.
Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Ododo represented by Moses Okezie-Okafor praised the campaign as a continuation of the Not Too Young to Run movement. He cited Kogi’s inclusive model, where women hold key positions including all local government deputy chair roles, the Secretary to the State Government, and Accountant General.
Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma, represented by Dr. Chika Abazu, said over 40% of Imo’s cabinet members are youth. “This campaign is timely. We’re already empowering young people to lead and it must continue.”