Your voices formed part of constitutional changes, Reps tell Youths

The Nigerian House of Representatives is calling on the nation's youth to play a pivotal role in shaping the outcome of the 2027 general elections through active participation in the electoral process. Lawmakers emphasized that the future of Nigeria's democracy hinges significantly on the choices and civic engagement of young people. This call to action was made during the Youth Town Hall, a key event of the 2026 National Assembly Open Week held in Abuja.

The forum, which brought together lawmakers, government officials, development partners, civil society organizations, and youth leaders, focused on youth inclusion in governance, democratic accountability, and nation-building. Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, the House Majority Leader, speaking on behalf of Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, stated that the 10th House has prioritized youth development and inclusion in its legislative agenda. He noted that the Youth Town Hall has evolved into a platform for young Nigerians to directly contribute to national policymaking and legislative reforms.

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Many of the ideas now reflected in the ongoing constitutional amendment proposals and other national policies were shaped by contributions made during previous editions of this Town Hall. Your voices have influenced outcomes, and that is precisely why this platform remains relevant.

Ihonvbere highlighted that recommendations from previous Town Hall editions have influenced ongoing constitutional amendment proposals and other national policies currently before the National Assembly. "Your voices have influenced outcomes, and that is precisely why this platform remains relevant," he stated. With political activities for the 2027 elections intensifying, the House Majority Leader identified young Nigerians as the country's largest voting bloc and a critical force in determining the credibility of future elections.

The House remains committed to fostering active partnerships with youth in governance, moving beyond them being passive recipients of policies. Legislative initiatives supporting youth include the passage of the National Youth Service Corps Reform Bill, the proposed Nigerian Youth Welfare Scheme Fund Bill, and a constitutional amendment bill aimed at reducing the minimum age for governorship candidates from 35 to 30 years. Reforms in education financing, taxation, electricity, cybersecurity, and the digital economy are also cited as measures designed to expand opportunities for young Nigerians.

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The quality of our elections and the future of our democracy will, to a large extent, be determined by the choices, conduct and active involvement of young Nigerians.