By Osordi Ayomide
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, has dismissed claims that young Nigerians are sidelined in the party, declaring instead that the APC is driven largely by youth participation.
Amid increasing agitation by youths over limited political inclusion, Yilwatda insisted that the ruling party has continued to provide space for both young and older members.
“We have over 18 million registered members in our party. Out of that number, those between the ages of 18 and 35 make up about 50%. That clearly shows we are the most youthful party in Nigeria,” he stated.
His remarks come against the backdrop of sustained calls for greater youth representation in governance, with many young Nigerians arguing that their numerical strength has not translated into real political power.
While the APC leadership points to its membership data as proof of inclusiveness, critics maintain that true participation goes beyond numbers, stressing that young people remain underrepresented in key leadership and decision-making positions.
Despite these concerns, Yilwatda’s assertion underscores a broader political reality, with youths forming a dominant share of Nigeria’s population, their influence remains central to the country’s democratic future.
