The Executive Secretary of the National Assembly Library, Rt. Hon. Henry Nwawuba, has called for a fundamental shift in African governance, urging that young people be moved from the margins of policy discussions to the very center of parliamentary decision-making.
Nwawuba made the call during a Youth Townhall hosted on Thursday by the Legislative Mentorship Initiative on the theme “State of Youth Representation in African Parliaments.” He was represented at the event by Dr. Matthew Coker, National Assembly Library SA on Research and Strategy.
He pointed out a stark demographic disconnect across the continent: while over 60 percent of Africa’s population is under 25 years old, youth remain disproportionately underrepresented within legislative chambers.
“Today’s theme addresses a core issue for Africa’s democratic future,” Nwawuba told delegates. “To build resilient institutions that reflect the majority’s aspirations, young people must move from the margins of policy discussions to the center of legislative action.”
“Young people are not only future leaders; they are stakeholders and leaders today. Their voices, ideas, and perspectives must be meaningfully represented in our parliaments and decision-making institutions.”
— Rt. Hon. Henry Nwawuba
Nwawuba commended the Founder of the Legislative Mentorship Initiative (LMI) and Chief of Staff to the President, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, for establishing a dedicated platform that prepares young Africans for governance and public policy.
While emphasizing that democracy thrives on inclusion, Nwawuba noted that meaningful participation requires more than enthusiasm.
“Inclusion requires preparation, mentorship, and capacity,” he stated. Addressing the young delegates directly, he added: “Participating in parliamentary spaces requires more than passion; it demands legislative knowledge, integrity, and strategic collaboration.”
He reaffirmed that the National Assembly Library remains dedicated to strengthening research, preserving institutional memory, and building legislative capacity to support LMI’s mission of raising ethical public sector leaders.
Serving as Chairman of the LMI Selection Committee, Nwawuba used the occasion to formally announce the LMI 2026 Call for Applications. He invited young leaders across the country who possess a drive for public service and democratic development to apply for the upcoming cohort.
“As Chairman of the LMI Selection Committee, I look forward to reviewing exciting applications,” Nwawuba said. “I encourage all eligible young Nigerians with the passion, ideas, and commitment to public leadership to seize this opportunity. Please apply, participate, and make your voices heard.”
