The House of Representatives has called upon Nigerian youth to take a central role in the nation’s democratic evolution by engaging deeply in the 2027 general elections. Legislators emphasized that because young people form the country’s largest voting bloc, the standard of governance and the future of democracy will largely depend on their participation and choices.
This appeal was delivered at a Youth Town Hall in Abuja, which served as a highlight of the 2026 National Assembly Open Week. The gathering connected lawmakers, government representatives, and youth leaders to discuss enhancing youth involvement in public affairs. Representing Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, House Majority Leader Prof. Julius Ihonvbere stated that youth inclusion is a primary focus of the 10th House’s legislative agenda.
Ihonvbere noted that the Youth Town Hall has become an essential venue for policy contribution, influencing various constitutional amendments. He pointed to significant legislative efforts, such as the NYSC Reform Bill, the Nigerian Youth Welfare Scheme Fund, and a proposal to lower the age requirement for gubernatorial candidates to 30. Furthermore, he highlighted reforms in areas such as digital economy, electricity, and education as measures to create more opportunities for the younger generation.
Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, praised the National Assembly for fostering direct dialogue between the youth and policymakers. He asserted that the government is committed to closing the historical divide between public institutions and the youth by offering programs in entrepreneurship, digital training, and financial access. Additionally, NASENI CEO Khalil Suleiman Halilu encouraged young Nigerians to leverage technology, AI, and innovation to drive national development, noting that his agency provides significant grants to support tech-based enterprises.
Advocacy group Yiaga Africa urged youth to move past rhetoric and engage in sustained civic action. They encouraged young citizens to register to vote, shun violence, and reject misinformation. In his final remarks, Speaker Abbas Tajudeen underscored the importance of voting based on integrity and evidence, reaffirming the House’s pledge to maintain an inclusive parliament that values the input of young Nigerians.
