Samson Itodo, the head of Yiaga Africa, has called on Nigerian youths to prepare for politics that is focused on strong values and good performance. He believes young people must be ready to lead with purpose, not just join politics for popularity.

Itodo said youth leadership should not only be about having large numbers. It must show real quality and strong ideas. He encouraged young people to focus on leadership that brings real change.

He made these remarks during a Youth Forum on Channels Television. The programme was part of the celebration of President Bola Tinubu’s second year in office.

The TV programme was themed, “Pressing Issues Affecting Nigeria’s Youth.” It featured government officials and key people from different sectors like health, education, business, and the creative industry.

Itodo didn’t hold back in criticizing Nigeria’s current political style. He said it lacks the values and integrity needed for true development and change.

He pointed out that the current politics in Nigeria does not focus on results or doing the right thing. He said that young people who want to lead should not behave like the older generation of politicians. According to him, Nigerians want a new kind of leadership.

Itodo looked at the role of young people in government during the past two years of President Tinubu’s leadership. He said that how well young people are performing in office matters more than just how many are involved.

As a strong supporter of the ‘Not Too Young To Run Bill,’ which became law in 2018, Itodo said that even though more youths are getting involved in politics, there are still many challenges to solve.

He shared his personal experience from the last two years and said leadership takes preparation. That’s why young people must take time to learn and develop their leadership skills.

He also noted that Nigeria’s political environment does not really support leaders who rise based on their talent or good ideas. This makes it harder for young people to grow in politics.

Still, Itodo remains hopeful. He believes that Nigerian youths have great potential to lead and make the country better.

To end his speech, he said that there must be deliberate efforts to bring young Nigerians into leadership. They must also be trained and supported to succeed.