The National Youth Council has dissolved its Board of Trustees (BoT) in a bold move to end what it called an outdated leadership structure, following the adoption of an amended constitution.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The decision, announced Friday in Abuja, marks one of the most significant reforms in the council’s recent history. Leaders said the change is aimed at giving young people more direct influence in the organization’s affairs and reducing conflicts linked to power struggles.

According to officials, the amended constitution replaces the old BoT structure with a transitional framework that will oversee the council’s activities until a new leadership model is fully established. The move is designed to increase accountability and prevent what members described as “monopoly of power” by a few individuals.

“This amendment is about renewing trust and giving real ownership back to the youths,” a senior council representative said. “The old order had become a source of division. Now we are building something that works for everyone.”

The Youth Council, often described as the umbrella body representing young people across Nigeria, has faced years of leadership disputes. Rival factions have sometimes staged parallel congresses, weakening the group’s ability to speak with one voice on national issues. Critics said the BoT system allowed a few leaders to hold on to power for too long, frustrating reforms.

Under the new constitution, the council is expected to create a wider consultative forum where state and regional chapters will have stronger representation. This, supporters say, will make decision-making more transparent and reduce internal crises.

“This is a turning point,” said one youth leader from Lagos State. “For too long, young people have been divided because of leadership tussles. Dissolving the BoT clears the way for unity and progress.”

Not everyone welcomed the decision. Some former members of the BoT argued that the council should have pursued dialogue instead of outright dissolution. They warned that sudden changes could create legal battles or further divisions if not carefully managed.

Political observers said the move reflects a growing demand among Nigerian youths for inclusive leadership. In recent years, young activists have played a key role in pushing for reforms in politics, governance, and social issues. The council’s restructuring is seen as part of that wider trend.

Analysts also noted that the timing of the amendment is significant. With national debates on unemployment, education, and youth participation in governance gaining attention, the council’s internal unity could strengthen its voice in policy discussions.

The council said it would soon set up committees to manage the transition and draft guidelines for electing new representatives under the amended rules. The process is expected to last several months, during which state chapters will be asked to contribute ideas on how to shape the new structure.

“Our focus is not just about dissolving old structures but creating new opportunities,” the council statement read. “Young people across the country will now have a greater say in how the council is run.”

Observers say the success of the reforms will depend on how well the council manages inclusiveness and transparency in the coming months. If implemented smoothly, the changes could make the body more credible and effective. But if mishandled, it could spark new disputes that weaken its authority.

For many youths, however, the development is already a source of optimism. “We need a council that speaks for all of us, not a few,” said Aisha Ibrahim, a student activist in Kano. “This is the beginning of something new, and it is long overdue.”

As the transition begins, attention will be on whether the council can move past its history of internal battles and become a strong voice for Nigeria’s young generation.