Addressing a world press briefing in Abuja, the newly elected 5th National Speaker of the Youth Assembly of Nigeria, Hon. Umaru Bala Babayaro, strongly advised young Nigerians to resist politicians attempting to incite violence or electoral malpractice ahead of the upcoming 2027 general elections. Babayaro stressed that the demographic weight of the youth population grants them the definitive voting capacity to shape leadership outcomes across the country.
What did the Speaker say about voting strength?
Citing data compiled from voter registration records maintained by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Babayaro pointed out that young demographics account for over sixty percent of the voting populace. He asserted that this organic numerical advantage provides young citizens with the leverage to elect any preferred candidate to the presidency or governorship offices.
"I want to acknowledge the fact that Nigerian youths’ population is over 60 percent based on the registered voters’ data that we have from INEC, and it shows that we have the organic vote to produce any leader as far as the national election is concerned, whether the President or the Governor," Babayaro stated during the briefing held days after his emergence as Speaker following an election on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at Sharon Ultimate Hotels, Abuja.
How will the assembly approach candidate selection?
To maximize this influence, Babayaro announced that the legislative body will thoroughly evaluate candidates standing for election in 2027. The assembly intends to scrutinize the past records of aspirants to determine their genuine commitment to youth development and inclusive governance.
Warning against manipulation and vulnerability exploitation, the Speaker maintained that no political office is worth the sacrifice of a young citizen's life. He challenged politicians seeking to deploy youth as agents of destruction to first offer their own children for such hazardous roles.
What are the five pillars of the new administration?
Outlining his vision for his two-year tenure, Babayaro introduced a comprehensive five-point framework designed to enhance institutional effectiveness and expand opportunities:
- Institutional Strengthening and National Spread: Focused on rebuilding state chapters, implementing constitutional reforms, and establishing an authentic national membership directory.
- Youth Economic Empowerment and Skills Revolution: Aimed at delivering practical ventures through public-private partnerships, offering digital technology training, startup grants, and mentorship programs.
- Governance and Legislative Advocacy: Involving structured interactions with the National Assembly, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, and the Federal Capital Territory Administration to advance youth- centric policy reforms on education, job creation, security, and substance abuse.
- Peace, Unity, and National Integration: Promoting inter-religious and inter-ethnic harmony, youth tours, and anti-thuggery campaigns.
- Visibility, Partnership, and International Engagement: Deepening cooperation with the ECOWAS Youth Parliament, African Union youth platforms, and international developmental organizations.
Concluding his address, Babayaro reaffirmed that his leadership will remain fully inclusive across all regional, gender, and religious lines. He also expressed strong support for ongoing youth-focused national dialogues anchored by the Federal Ministry of Youth Development.