The Time for Youth Leadership in Nigeria: A Call for Change
By George Omagbemi Sylvester
For decades, the promise of youth leadership has echoed throughout Nigeria. Leaders, past and present, have assured young Nigerians that they are the “leaders of tomorrow.” However, that tomorrow remains elusive. A striking example is former President Olusegun Obasanjo. During his military regime in the late 1970s, he told students, “Children, listen to your teachers, as you are the future leaders of tomorrow.” Yet, decades later, he returned as a civilian president, while many from that youth generation remained excluded from meaningful leadership roles. This raises an essential question: When will tomorrow arrive for Nigeria’s young generation?
The Age-Long Marginalization of Youth in Nigerian Politics
Nigeria’s political landscape has long been dominated by the older generation, leaving little room for young leaders to emerge. Despite being a country where over 60% of the population is under 30, power remains concentrated in the hands of individuals in their 60s, 70s, and even 80s. The gerontocratic nature of the system stifles the political aspirations of young people eager to contribute fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and progressive policies.

This issue is not unique to Nigeria. Across Africa, youth exclusion in governance is a persistent challenge. However, global examples prove that young people can lead effectively when given the opportunity.
Global Examples of Youth Leadership
In contrast to Nigeria’s political structure, several nations have embraced young leaders, demonstrating that competence is not age-dependent. A prime example is France’s Emmanuel Macron, who became president at just 39 years old, signaling a shift in the French political landscape. Similarly, New Zealand’s Jacinda Ardern assumed office as Prime Minister at 37, bringing a fresh approach to governance.
Even within Africa, there have been promising strides. In 2018, Ethiopia’s Abiy Ahmed became Prime Minister at 42, making significant progress in economic reform, diplomacy, and youth inclusion. Yet, Nigeria remains a country where young politicians face systemic barriers that keep them out of power.
Challenges Hindering Youth Leadership in Nigeria
Age Restrictions and Political Barriers
Until the passing of the Not Too Young to Run bill in 2018, Nigeria’s constitution had prohibitive age limits for elective positions. While the bill lowered the minimum age for candidacy, systemic obstacles persist, including party-dominated nomination processes that favor older politicians.
Economic Disempowerment
Politics in Nigeria is heavily monetized, making it difficult for young aspirants without substantial financial backing to compete. The high costs associated with electioneering, from party nomination forms to campaign expenses, serve as major deterrents.
Godfatherism and Political Gatekeeping
The entrenched culture of political godfatherism means young aspirants must align with older, more established figures, often at the cost of their independence and potential for genuine change.
Voter Apathy and Disillusionment
Decades of electoral fraud, manipulation, and unfulfilled promises have led to widespread disillusionment among young voters, resulting in low participation rates that further marginalize them from political processes.
Lack of Political Education and Mentorship
Many young people possess the passion for leadership but lack the necessary training and mentorship to navigate the complexities of governance effectively. Without proper political education, their potential remains underutilized.
The Path Forward: How Young Nigerians Can Take Charge
Active Political Participation
Young people must move beyond political discourse and actively engage by voting, contesting for office, and holding leaders accountable. The 2023 elections witnessed a surge in youth political consciousness—a trend that must be sustained.
Strengthening Youth Movements and Advocacy Groups
Organizations such as the Not Too Young to Run movement have demonstrated the power of collective action. Young people should build and support more platforms advocating for their political inclusion.
Economic Empowerment and Entrepreneurship
By achieving financial independence through entrepreneurship and business development, young people can reduce their reliance on political godfathers and finance their own political ambitions.
Leveraging Technology and Social Media
Digital platforms are powerful tools for political mobilization, advocacy, and engagement. Nigerian youths have successfully used social media to influence governance, as seen during the #EndSARS protests. This energy should be channeled toward sustainable political change.
Demanding Policy Reforms
Advocating for policies that promote youth inclusion in governance—such as lowering the cost of political participation and ensuring fair electoral practices—remains crucial.
Voices on Youth Leadership and Change
Many influential figures have emphasized the necessity of youth leadership:
Barack Obama: “The world is changing, but progress depends on young people who are determined to make a difference.”
Malala Yousafzai: “Let us make our future now, and let us make our dreams tomorrow’s reality.”
Nelson Mandela: “The youth of today are the leaders of tomorrow.”
Kwame Nkrumah: “Africa needs a new kind of citizen, a dedicated, modest, honest, informed man. A man who submerges self in service to the nation and mankind.”
A Defining Moment for Nigeria’s Youth
The notion that young people are the leaders of tomorrow must transcend rhetoric and become a reality. While significant barriers exist, Nigerian youth possess the potential, creativity, and resilience to lead their country into a new era. The examples of young leaders across the globe prove that youth leadership is not an aspiration but a necessity.
Nigeria must break away from the cycle of recycled leadership and embrace a future where young voices shape the nation’s destiny. The time for change is not in some distant future—it is now. Nigeria’s young generation must rise, organize, and demand their rightful place in the corridors of power. Only through active engagement, persistent advocacy, and fearless ambition can the promise of youth leadership finally be fulfilled.