Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Former Labour Party vice-presidential candidate, Senator Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, has called for a generational shift in Nigeria’s political leadership, arguing that the country’s deepening economic and security crises can no longer be addressed by long-standing political figures.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television, Baba-Ahmed said Nigeria urgently requires leaders with renewed energy, modern governance skills and innovative ideas, stressing that the nation’s challenges have evolved beyond the capacity of what he described as recycled leadership.
In a pointed remark, Baba-Ahmed referenced former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s repeated presidential bids, noting that Atiku has been contesting for Nigeria’s highest office since his own National Youth Service Corps period. According to him, this illustrates a broader problem in Nigerian politics, where the same individuals dominate the political space for decades while younger generations struggle to gain meaningful access to power.
Baba-Ahmed argued that Nigeria’s worsening economic indicators, rising unemployment, insecurity and declining public trust in institutions demand a leadership class that understands contemporary realities and global best practices. He said governance in the modern era requires adaptability, technological awareness and a willingness to rethink entrenched systems that no longer serve the public interest.
While clarifying that his comments were not personal attacks, the former senator maintained that leadership renewal is essential for national progress. He said countries that have successfully transformed their economies and strengthened democratic institutions did so by deliberately opening space for new ideas and younger leaders, rather than relying indefinitely on the same political actors.
Baba-Ahmed also urged young Nigerians not to withdraw from the political process out of frustration or cynicism. He warned that disengagement only strengthens entrenched interests and delays meaningful change. According to him, sustained youth participation — through voting, civic engagement, policy advocacy and political organisation — remains critical to reshaping Nigeria’s future.
He emphasized that the growing youth population represents Nigeria’s greatest asset, adding that their involvement must go beyond social media activism to include structured participation in political parties, governance debates and electoral processes.
Baba-Ahmed’s comments come amid ongoing national conversations about leadership renewal, generational inclusion and the future direction of Nigeria’s democracy, as the country continues to grapple with economic pressures, security challenges and demands for political reform.
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