Nigeria marks its 65th independence anniversary, a leading youth group has called for a generational shift in political leadership, saying the country’s future depends on younger voices taking charge.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The group, under the banner of the National Youth Alliance, said Nigeria cannot continue to rely on the same political class that has dominated for decades. It urged leaders to open more space for young people to participate in decision-making and governance.

Speaking during an anniversary gathering in Abuja on Thursday, the group’s president, Ibrahim Musa, said young Nigerians make up more than 60% of the population but remain excluded from real power. “Nigeria’s independence was achieved by leaders who were in their 20s and 30s. Today, the youth are still relegated to the sidelines,” he said.

The demand comes as the country struggles with economic hardship, unemployment, insecurity, and public mistrust of political institutions. Many young Nigerians say the problems have worsened because older leaders refuse to give way to new ideas.

At the event, several speakers criticized what they called a recycling of the same individuals in government positions. “We cannot keep expecting progress from the same class of politicians who have led us for over 40 years,” said youth activist Chidinma Okafor. “Our generation must be allowed to take responsibility.”

Nigeria’s average age is about 18, according to government data, yet most elected leaders are over 50. While the 2018 “Not Too Young To Run” law lowered the age requirement for candidates, activists say structural barriers and money politics still block youth from competing fairly.

Experts note that the call for change reflects wider frustration among Nigerians under 35, who have been at the forefront of social movements in recent years. In 2020, young people organized the #EndSARS protests against police brutality, a movement that shook the nation and demonstrated their political strength.

Analysts say such calls may intensify ahead of the next general election, when millions of new voters, mostly young, are expected to register. Political observers believe youth participation could alter the balance of power if mobilized effectively.

Some older politicians have also acknowledged the need for transition. Former senator and elder statesman Shehu Adamu said in a televised interview that the country must prepare for younger leaders. “We should not wait until a crisis forces the change. It is better to nurture it now,” he said.

The youth group in Abuja proposed several steps, including stronger party reforms to support young candidates, transparent campaign financing, and more youth representation in policymaking bodies. They also urged government institutions to create mentorship programs linking current leaders with younger professionals.

Despite skepticism about whether the political elite will yield ground, the group pledged to keep pressing. “We are not asking for favors,” Musa said. “We are demanding our rightful place in shaping Nigeria’s destiny.”

Nigeria gained independence from Britain in 1960. Over the years, it has moved between military rule and democracy, with leadership often concentrated in older figures who were part of the country’s earlier political struggles. Youth groups argue that while experience is valuable, the challenges of today—technology, globalization, and new economic realities—require leaders who can connect with the younger population.

As the independence celebrations continue, the call for generational change has struck a chord with many citizens. Whether it leads to policy reforms or shifts within political parties remains uncertain, but observers say the demand is unlikely to fade.

For now, Nigeria’s young people say they will continue to organize, campaign, and demand that their voices shape the nation’s next chapter.

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