The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, has called on Nigerian youths to take ownership of the democratic process and resist attempts by “self-serving political actors” to derail the country’s progress.
Speaking in a statement issued on April 28, 2026, through his Special Adviser on Media and Information Strategy, Abimbola Tooki, Yilwatda described youths as the critical force for sustaining Nigeria’s present and future stability.
“Nigeria’s democracy is at a defining moment. The responsibility to defend and consolidate it rests heavily on our youths, who possess the energy, innovation, and patriotic zeal required to move the nation forward. We must not allow individuals who offer no credible alternatives to past challenges to mislead the people or truncate the gains already being recorded,” Yilwatda said.
He noted that the call has become imperative in view of recent movements by certain political interests across the country, aimed at promoting narrow personal ambitions while misinforming citizens about the intentions and outcomes of the current administration’s reform agenda.
According to the statement, the APC today stands as a truly youth-driven political movement, with over 50 percent of its membership comprising young men and women. “This demographic strength reflects the party’s deliberate commitment to inclusion, generational renewal, and the empowerment of emerging leaders as key drivers of Nigeria’s democratic future.”
Yilwatda highlighted the historic nature of his own emergence as national chairman. “In a historic and defining milestone, the party has, for the first time since its formation, entrusted its national leadership to a youthful figure in the person of Professor Nentawe Yilwatda. This development underscores the APC’s progressive orientation and its recognition of the strategic importance of youth leadership in navigating the complexities of modern governance and politics.”
He said the move sends a powerful signal about the party’s confidence in the younger generation. “By elevating a young leader to its highest administrative office, the APC has not only broken new ground but has also sent a powerful signal about its confidence in the capacity, vision, and dynamism of Nigeria’s younger generation. It reinforces the party’s belief that sustainable democracy and national development are best secured when young people are not merely participants, but central actors in shaping policy, driving reforms, and defending democratic values.”
The APC Chairman warned against entrusting Nigeria’s future to those pursuing personal ambitions. “Entrusting Nigeria’s future to such elements, who are pursuing their personal agenda of becoming the president at all cost, would be a costly mistake, capable of reversing hard-earned progress and returning the country to periods of uncertainty and stagnation.”
While acknowledging the difficult adjustments that have come with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reforms, Yilwatda insisted they are necessary for long-term prosperity. “These measures are necessary foundations for long-term prosperity. Early indicators show the reforms are already repositioning Nigeria for sustainable growth, fiscal stability, and global competitiveness.”
He emphasized the advantages of a youthful population, noting that young people bring adaptability, technological awareness, and a forward-looking mindset, “qualities essential for deepening democratic values, enhancing civic participation, and holding leadership accountable.” He added that “a politically conscious and engaged youth population remains the strongest guarantee against democratic backsliding.”
Yilwatda pointed out that the administration’s reforms have received commendation from international bodies. “The administration’s economic and structural reforms have received commendation from respected international bodies such as the World Bank and other global stakeholders, signaling renewed confidence in Nigeria’s direction.”
He said these positive signals have begun to translate into increased investor interest. “Recent policy shifts, particularly in foreign exchange management, subsidy reforms, and investment liberalization, have made Nigeria a more attractive destination for both local and foreign capital. 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 are clear that the country is on a path to recovery and growth,” he stated.
Signed:
Abimbola Tooki
Special Adviser to the National Chairman of APC
(Media and Information Strategy)
April 28, 2026