Samson Itodo, Director of Yiaga Africa, has urged Nigerian youths to focus on value-based political participation rather than merely seeking positions without substance and ideology.

Speaking during a Youth Forum segment of Channels Television's special programme marking President Bola Tinubu's second year in office on Thursday, Itodo emphasized that youth leadership must transcend numbers to reflect substance and ideological grounding.

"The dominant character of the politics we practice in Nigeria is not one that is driven by values or performance in office. Young people who clamour for leadership cannot act in the same manner as traditional politicians. Nigerians are looking for a new lease and character of leadership," Itodo stated.

The programme, themed "Pressing Issues Affecting Nigeria's Youth," brought together key stakeholders and government officials to address challenges in sectors including education, health, business, and the creative industry.

Preparation Critical for Youth Leadership

Itodo, a prominent advocate for the 'Not Too Young To Run Bill' which was passed in 2018 under former President Muhammadu Buhari's administration, assessed the role of young people in governance two years into President Tinubu's administration.

He noted that despite increased youth participation in politics following the bill's passage, significant gaps remain in effective representation.

"We are far away from where we want to be. I've learnt three things in the past two years of getting young people into office — there is a place for preparation as far as leadership is concerned. This is why it's so important for young people to invest in leadership development," he emphasized.

According to the Yiaga Africa director, it is not the quantitative dimension of participation that matters most but how youths are performing in public office. He pointed out that the current political environment in Nigeria does not encourage merit-based or transformative leadership, which affects how young people emerge and perform in governance positions.

Despite these challenges, Itodo expressed optimism about the potential of Nigeria's youth while stressing that intentional efforts must be made to bring young Nigerians into leadership positions and equip them with the necessary tools to succeed.