A non-profit, non-governmental, anti-corruption organisation, Amalgamated Civil Society Organisations of Nigeria (ACN) has advocated for the active involvement of the country’s young population in governance.
As President Bola Ahmed Tinubu prepares to form his cabinet and other government organs, the ACN, which comprises over a million civil society groups, is echoing the calls of opinion leaders, traditional rulers, women groups, youth groups, and concerned Nigerians to move away from the use of recycled and unsuccessful politicians.
A statement signed by the national president of ACN, Comrade Gbenga Ashiru Abiodun, and the general secretary, Comrade Yakubu Abdullahi, yesterday in Abuja highlighted the vast pool of youthful technocrats and bureaucrats brimming with energy, ready and eager to contribute to the nation’s development.
The ACN urged the present administration to look beyond former governors, ministers, and individuals who may have contributed to the country’s challenges.
The ACN lauded President Tinubu as a change agent committed to transforming the country.
To achieve this, they advocate collaborating with the young population, both male and female, and assigning them strategic positions in the administration.
They believed that with 65 per cent of Nigeria’s population being under 25, prioritizing the affairs of the youth is vital for a sustainable and effective governance that serves the interests of all citizens.
The organisation pointed out that young people are already making significant contributions to governance, and they highlight exemplary leaders like the director-general of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi. It said these young achievers are changing the narrative and representing Nigerian youth globally.
The ACN stressed that incorporating youths into the current administration will foster inclusivity, diversity, and intergenerational dialogue, leading to well-rounded and equitable decision-making.
They also recommended retaining, promoting, and elevating outstanding young leaders from previous administrations who have been performing exceptionally well.
The organization urged President Tinubu to retire ineffective leaders who have contributed to the country’s current state and advises that these leaders can serve as honorable advisers from the sidelines.
The ACN said that change can best be achieved through the vision and energy of the young people who are eager to shape Nigeria’s future.
Concluding, the CSOs called on all Nigerians and well-wishers of the present administration to advocate for the inclusion of youths in governance.
