By Muhammad Mamman
In a rousing call to action, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has challenged Nigerian youth to take charge of the nation’s political future, declaring, “You’re not just the future—you’re the present.” Speaking at the launch of the Take Action Campaign (TAC) in Abuja on Tuesday, represented by Olamijuwonlo Alao-Akala (APC, Oyo), Tajudeen urged young Nigerians to step up and claim their place in governance.
With youth comprising over 60% of Nigeria’s population, Tajudeen decried their underrepresentation in leadership, urging active participation in law-making and policy-shaping. Highlighting the success of the Not Too Young to Run Act, he pointed to the election of a 26-year-old MP from Kebbi as evidence of progress. He also backed a bill reserving National Assembly seats for women, noting its potential to empower young women under 35 and transform national discourse.
Addressing the “japa” migration trend, Tajudeen passionately appealed: “No matter where you go, your Nigerian identity is your birthright. This is your land, your mission.”
The TAC, launched by the Youth in Parliament Forum (YIPF), aims to mobilise young Nigerians to run for office and lead. YIPF Director General Tony Nwulu, who championed the Not Too Young to Run bill, said TAC will mentor aspirants, establish nationwide structures, and drive voter education to elect young legislators by 2027. “This is a national awakening,” Nwulu declared.
Kogi State Governor Ahmed Ododo, represented by Moses Okezie-Okafor, hailed TAC as the next step in youth inclusion, citing Kogi’s gender-balanced local councils as a model. He also praised President Bola Tinubu’s support for youth, referencing recent recognition of the Falconets.
TAC marks a bold step towards a youth-led political revolution, poised to reshape Nigeria’s future.
