Yiaga Africa Launches ‘Not Too Young To Run’ Hub In Gombe Varsity

As part of efforts to promote youth interest in politics, Yiaga Africa, a non-governmental organisation, launched the “Not Too Young To Run” hub at Gombe State University on Friday.

Speaking during the event, the programme officer of Yiaga Africa, Olaniyo Sanusi, explained that the programme, supported by the Open Society Foundations, is a step towards promoting youth participation in politics and transforming Nigeria’s political culture.

According to him, the hub is part of a nationwide initiative aimed at empowering young people with leadership skills, promoting transformative politics, and advocating for democratic rights.
Sanusi added that Yiaga Africa is committed to engaging political parties to make nomination forms more affordable and accessible to young people.

“The high cost of nomination forms is a significant barrier to youth participation in politics. We are working with political parties to address this challenge and encourage more young people to run for office.

“The ‘Not Too Young To Run’ hub is expected to boost activities that promote youth political participation, redefine politics, and foster a new generation of leaders in Nigeria”, he stated.

In his remarks, the university’s representative and public relations officer, Hadu Naphtali Ligari, lauded Yiaga Africa’s initiative.

He noted that the university also organises leadership training for students and emphasised the importance of mentorship and leadership development.