CALABAR — Youth leaders in Cross River state have formally launched the “Not Too Young to Lead” campaign, calling for increased political inclusion and active participation of young people in governance ahead of the 2027 general elections NEGROIDHAVEN can report.
The initiative was unveiled on Thursday during the grand finale of the Future First: Cross River Youth Unity and Assessment Tour, organised by the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Cross River chapter.
Speaking at the event, the State Chairman of NYCN, Emmanuel Olayi, said the campaign is designed to challenge long-standing barriers that limit youth participation in leadership, while encouraging capable young people to step forward and contest for elective positions.
According to him, the campaign will move beyond advocacy to practical engagement with stakeholders, including political parties and government institutions, to create pathways for young aspirants.
“This is not just a slogan,” Olayi said. “It is a deliberate effort to ensure that young people are not only recognised for their numbers but also for their capacity to lead and contribute meaningfully to governance.”
The launch formed a key highlight of the youth tour, which covered all 18 local government areas of the state, providing a platform for interaction with young people, traditional rulers, and community stakeholders.
Olayi explained that the tour revealed both enthusiasm and gaps in youth political participation, noting that while many young people are interested in leadership, structural and societal challenges still hinder their full involvement.
He added that the campaign would focus on identifying competent young leaders, supporting their aspirations, and advocating for fair opportunities within party structures.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Youth Development and Skills Acquisition, Barr. Odum-Ijom Ukam, described the initiative as timely, noting that youth inclusion remains critical to sustainable governance.
He pointed out that the current administration of Governor Bassey Edet Otu has demonstrated commitment to youth empowerment through appointments and programmes, while urging young people to take advantage of emerging opportunities.
“There is now a visible shift,” Ukam said. “Young people are not only being appointed into key positions but are increasingly aspiring for elective offices. The responsibility now lies with them to meet the requirements and actively participate.”
The event also featured a panel session where differing views emerged on youth readiness for leadership. While some speakers expressed concerns about declining preparedness among parts of the youth population, organisers maintained that a significant number of young people remain qualified and capable.
Responding to the concerns, Olayi acknowledged existing challenges but insisted they do not reflect the entire youth demographic.
“There are distractions in today’s world, but there are also young people who are focused, experienced, and ready to lead. Our role is to identify and support them,” he said.
Participants at the event, including youth representatives from across the three senatorial districts, welcomed the campaign and pledged to mobilise their peers toward greater political awareness and participation.
The “Not Too Young to Lead” campaign is expected to continue with statewide engagements, advocacy visits, and collaboration with political stakeholders as momentum builds toward the 2027 elections.
