As the nation prepares for the 2027 general elections, the Nigerian Senate has issued a high-level call to the country’s youth, urging them to steer clear of electoral violence, drug abuse, and social vices. The upper chamber emphasized that the future of Nigeria’s democracy relies on constructive civic engagement rather than disruption.
Speaking on behalf of the Senate at the official launch of the Renewed Hope Agenda Continuity Marshals (REHACMA) at the Yar’Adua Centre on Thursday, Senate Chief Whip, Mohammed Tahir Monguno, delivered a stern but encouraging message to the nation’s largest demographic.
Senator Monguno underscored the necessity for young Nigerians to remain “enlightened and impartial” throughout the upcoming electioneering season. He challenged them to transition from being tools for political unrest to becoming architects of national development.
“Our youth must be the engines of ideas that advance good governance. By rejecting violence and torture, you protect the very democracy that serves your future,” Monguno stated.
The Chief Whip highlighted key legislative milestones designed to lower the barrier for youth entry into the socio-political arena:
The Electoral Act: Strategically crafted to ensure a level playing field, making it easier for young leaders to compete in the political space.
The NELFUND Act (Student Loans Bill): A landmark initiative assented to by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to remove financial barriers to higher education and bolster human capital.
The event also served as a platform to praise the formation of REHACMA, which Senator Monguno noted is vital for articulating youth interests. He reaffirmed that youth inclusion is not a peripheral goal but a core pillar of the Renewed Hope Agenda, with deliberate policies in place to integrate young professionals into leadership and decision-making roles.
The launch featured several prominent voices calling for a new era of youth responsibility:
Dayo Israel, APC National Youth Leader, challenged attendees to move beyond the sidelines and embrace active, disciplined political participation.
Osawemwenhio Uwagboe, REHACMA National Coordinator, reminded the audience that the responsibility of shaping Nigeria’s future sits squarely on the shoulders of its young citizens.
The ceremony concluded with the unveiling of the REHACMA national executives, signaling a structured move toward grassroots mobilization and policy advocacy.
