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The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, has called on Nigerian youths to take a leading role in defending and strengthening the country’s democratic system.
Yilwatda made the appeal amid ongoing political and economic reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging young Nigerians—particularly those within the 25 to 55 age bracket—to actively participate in safeguarding the nation’s democratic process.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Information Strategy, Abimbola Tooki, the APC chairman described young people as a vital force for sustaining Nigeria’s political stability and long-term development.
According to him, the country’s democracy is at a critical stage and requires the energy, innovation and patriotic commitment of youths to consolidate the gains already being made.
He also warned against what he described as attempts by some political actors to promote narrow personal ambitions while allegedly misleading citizens about the intentions and outcomes of the current administration’s reform agenda.
Yilwatda stressed that Nigerian youths must remain vigilant and avoid being swayed by individuals who, according to him, offer no credible alternatives to the nation’s past challenges.
The APC chairman highlighted the strong presence of young people within the party, noting that more than 50 percent of its membership comprises youths. He said the development reflects the party’s commitment to inclusiveness, generational renewal and the emergence of new leaders.
He described his emergence as national chairman as a historic milestone for the party, noting that it marks the first time since its formation that a relatively young leader has been entrusted with its national leadership.
According to him, the development demonstrates the party’s confidence in the ability of the younger generation to contribute meaningfully to governance and national development.
Yilwatda further cautioned that entrusting Nigeria’s future to individuals pursuing personal political ambitions at all costs could undermine the progress already achieved and return the country to periods of uncertainty.
While acknowledging that reforms introduced by the Tinubu administration have involved difficult adjustments, he maintained that the measures are necessary steps toward long-term economic stability and prosperity.
He added that early indicators suggest the reforms are gradually repositioning Nigeria for sustainable growth and improved global competitiveness.
The APC chairman also pointed to growing international confidence in Nigeria’s economic direction, noting that institutions such as the World Bank have acknowledged aspects of the reform programme.
According to him, the positive outlook is beginning to translate into increased investor interest in key sectors such as energy, infrastructure, technology and manufacturing.
“Investor confidence is gradually being restored. From renewed commitments in the oil and gas sector to growing interest in Nigeria’s digital economy and infrastructure space, the signs indicate that Nigeria is on the path to recovery and growth,” he said.
He concluded by emphasizing that an informed, politically engaged youth population remains the strongest safeguard against democratic backsliding in the country.
