APC aspirants call for more women, youth participation in politics
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- APC senatorial and House of Representatives aspirants are calling for increased participation of women and youth in Nigerian politics.
- They emphasize the need for purposeful leadership and structured solutions to address developmental challenges.
- The aspirants advocate for a focus on job creation, improved security, and restoring hope through systemic change.
In Nigeria, political aspirants from the All Progressives Congress (APC) are championing a significant shift towards greater inclusion of women and youth in leadership positions. Sola Ajimati, an APC senatorial aspirant for Kwara South, and Simisola Fajemirokun-Ajayi, a House of Representatives aspirant, have publicly stated their commitment to this cause, believing it is crucial for the nation's democratic future.
Kwara South is not short of talent. We are not short of strength. What we have lacked is representation that converts potential into real results. That is why we are here.
Ajimati, speaking at his declaration event, stressed the importance of moving beyond merely managing issues to implementing purposeful leadership and structured solutions. He highlighted that while Kwara South possesses abundant talent, it has historically lacked effective representation capable of translating potential into tangible development. His "Itโs Youth OโClock Movement" aims to foster responsible, system-driven governance focused on key areas like job creation and security.
Its Youth Oโclock is not a slogan. It is a movement of responsibility. We are not here to make noise. We are here to build systems that work. Systems that will create jobs, secure our communities, and restore dignity and hope to our people.
This push for youth and women's involvement is framed not just as a matter of representation but as a necessity for driving progress. The aspirants articulate a vision where young professionals and entrepreneurs actively participate in politics and policymaking, emphasizing that "the future cannot be outsourced." Their agenda includes practical, measurable goals such as advancing security, empowering youth through opportunities rather than handouts, attracting federal projects, strengthening education, and ensuring transparent leadership. This perspective reflects a growing sentiment within Nigeria that a new generation of leaders is needed to tackle the country's complex challenges.
Itโs Youth Oโclock is more than a movementโit is a force. A force of young professionals, entrepreneurs, innovators, and business leaders rising with one purpose: To actively participate in politics, governance, and policymaking across Nigeria and beyond. Because the truth is simpleโthe future cannot be outsourced.
Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.