By Nkechi Eze
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, has called on Nigerian youths to take a frontline role in safeguarding the country’s democracy, warning against attempts by politically motivated actors to undermine ongoing national reforms.
According to an official signed statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Information Strategy, Abimbola Tooki, the APC chairman made the appeal in the context of what he described as a critical phase in Nigeria’s democratic evolution. He urged young Nigerians, particularly those within the 25 to 55 age bracket, to actively participate in strengthening democratic institutions and resisting misinformation capable of derailing progress.
Yilwatda emphasized that recent political manoeuvres by certain interests across the country were driven by narrow ambitions rather than national development, cautioning that such tendencies could reverse the gains being recorded under the current administration led by Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He maintained that the APC has deliberately positioned itself as a youth-oriented political platform, noting that more than half of its membership comprises young Nigerians. This, he said, reflects the party’s commitment to inclusivity, leadership renewal, and the empowerment of emerging voices in governance.
The APC chairman highlighted his emergence as the party’s national leader as a significant milestone, describing it as evidence of the party’s confidence in the capacity of younger leaders to navigate contemporary political and governance challenges. He noted that entrusting leadership responsibilities to the youth would strengthen democratic consolidation and foster innovation in public service delivery.
While acknowledging that recent economic reforms have imposed short-term challenges on citizens, Yilwatda insisted that the measures are essential for long-term economic stability and growth. He added that early signs indicate improvements in fiscal management and renewed global confidence in Nigeria’s economy.
The APC chairman further disclosed that international institutions, including the World Bank, have recognized the country’s reform trajectory, pointing to growing investor interest in sectors such as energy, infrastructure, technology, and manufacturing.
He stressed that an engaged and politically conscious youth population remains vital to preventing democratic setbacks, urging young Nigerians to remain vigilant, informed, and committed to national development as the country navigates its reform agenda.
