Abbas: Parties must identify, nurture young Nigerians to assume leadership positions

Tajudeen Abbas, the speaker of the house of representatives, says political parties must identify and nurture young Nigerians to take over leadership positions.

Abbas spoke in Abuja on Monday at the youth town hall meeting organised by the national assembly on the 2025 budget.

The speaker said Nigerian youths are active participants in governance and development, adding that their creative energy is necessary in every critical sector of society.

Abbas advised the youths to unite and boldly propose their demands and expectations for the 2025 budget.

“Your energy, creativity, and resilience are transforming every sector of our society, from agriculture to technology, arts, sports, and entrepreneurship,” the speaker said.

“Across these fields, you demonstrate that Nigerian youths can achieve greatness with the right support and opportunities.

“Yet, we must ask ourselves: how can you do even more? How can we, as leaders, create an enabling environment that allows your potential to flourish fully?

“This dialogue is, therefore, so important to explore how government policies, budgets, and programmes can better support you in taking your rightful place as drivers of national development.

“The responsibility of building the next generation of leaders must not be left to chance. Political parties, as key institutions of democracy, have an urgent role to play in identifying, nurturing, and empowering young people to assume leadership positions.

“The challenges of our time, from climate change to digital transformation, economic shocks to global security issues, demand leaders who are prepared, knowledgeable, and visionary. Preparation is, therefore, non-negotiable in leadership.

“It requires education, exposure, mentorship, and a strong sense of duty and integrity. Young Nigerians must be intentional about preparing themselves to lead, not just politically but in every sphere of society.

“I call on political parties to take seriously their mandate to scout for and develop young talents, ensuring that leadership succession is deliberate and inclusive. The future of our democracy and the survival of our institutions hinge on this.”