A prominent youth political group has thrown its weight behind President Bola Tinubu’s second-term ambition, while urging his administration to intensify policy implementation, job creation, and security reforms.
The National Youth Political Coalition (NYPC) made its position known on Tuesday during a national press conference in Abuja, citing an assessment of the administration’s performance and its commitment to reforms benefiting Nigerians, particularly young people.
Coalition chairman Charles Dagana acknowledged government efforts in economic reforms, infrastructure, and security, but stressed that more work was needed to tackle economic hardship, rising living costs, and unemployment.
“We recognise that governing a country like Nigeria is not easy, and we acknowledge the efforts made so far,” Dagana stated. “However, there is still much to be done. Our support is based on the need for greater implementation of policies, youth-focused economic opportunities, improved security, and ensuring that government programmes reach ordinary Nigerians.”
Dagana urged federal and state governments to ensure effective policy implementation, noting that many initiatives fail due to weak execution and inadequate monitoring.
The coalition reaffirmed its backing for the proposed establishment of state police, describing it as a necessary measure to address Nigeria’s security challenges. It also renewed calls for a Physical Development Commission (PDC) to monitor government-funded infrastructure projects nationwide, ensuring proper supervision, accountability, and rural development.
“Our focus is no longer just on making policies but on ensuring that those policies are implemented effectively and benefit the people directly,” Dagana added.
Convener Usman Shagari, also National Speaker of the National Youth Assembly of Nigeria, called on the government to create more youth employment, invest in education, technology, innovation, and agriculture, strengthen security, and accelerate infrastructure development.
Shagari emphasised the coalition’s independence, stating it would support any political party or candidate with policies promoting youth empowerment, good governance, national unity, and economic growth—based on competence and commitment, not political affiliation.
“Nigeria comes first. The youth come first. The future starts now,” he declared.
He further noted that democracy required a strong opposition offering solutions rather than mere criticism, adding: “Nigerians want leaders who will put the country’s interest first. Politics should be about solving problems, not personal ambition.”
While acknowledging some progress, Shagari expressed concern that many public officials had not met expectations, urging transparency, accountability, and result-oriented service delivery.
He welcomed the passage of the state police bill and called for the establishment of Physical Development, Women Rights, and Youth Development Commissions.
National women leader Aisha Yusuf reaffirmed the coalition’s commitment to women’s empowerment and inclusion, stressing that women must be given equal opportunities to contribute to national development.
“When women are empowered, when their voices are heard, and when they are fully included in all areas of national life, the nation flourishes,” she said.
Yusuf added that Nigerian youths were ready to channel their energy, innovation, and creativity toward building a stronger, more prosperous nation.
National publicity secretary Solomon Fayese commended the proposed state police framework while expressing concern over the performance of some youth political appointees, noting that many had yet to make a meaningful impact on job creation and youth welfare.
“Our concern is that some youth appointees have not done enough to create jobs and improve the lives of young Nigerians. We need practical results, not just good ideas on paper,” Fayese concluded.
