The House of Representatives has challenged Nigerian youths to play a greater role in shaping the country’s democratic future ahead of the 2027 general elections.
At the Youth Town Hall held during the National Assembly’s 2026 Open Week, Speaker Abbas Tajudeen said young Nigerians remain the largest voting bloc and a critical force in determining the quality of elections and governance. He noted that youth inclusion has become a major focus of the 10th House, with several legislative initiatives aimed at creating more opportunities for young people.
Among the initiatives highlighted were the NYSC Reform Bill, the proposed Nigerian Youth Welfare Scheme Fund Bill and constitutional amendment proposals seeking to lower the minimum age for governorship candidates from 35 to 30 years. The Speaker also pointed to reforms in education, taxation, electricity, cybersecurity and the digital economy as efforts designed to empower the next generation.
Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, stressed the importance of giving young Nigerians a voice in decision-making, while NASENI Executive Vice Chairman, Khalil Halilu, urged youths to embrace innovation, artificial intelligence and entrepreneurship. He disclosed that NASENI’s Innovate Nigeria programme offers grants of up to ₦250 million to support innovators and technology-driven businesses.
As Nigeria prepares for the future, stakeholders agree that greater youth participation in governance, innovation and elections will be vital to building a stronger and more inclusive democracy.
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