A youth political advocate has called on young Nigerians to step off the sidelines and actively shape the country’s future, warning that silence and apathy will only reinforce the status quo.
Charles Gold-Nnachi, chairman of Manufar Matasa in the Federal Capital Territory, made the appeal over the weekend in Abuja while marking his 43rd birthday. The gathering, attended by political associates and community figures, doubled as a platform to reflect on the role of young people in national development.
Addressing guests, Gold-Nnachi said real change requires participation, not commentary from a distance.
“If those who are young in mind refuse to engage and leave politics to the same recycled actors, nothing will change,” he said. “We cannot fix the system from the outside. We have to be part of it.”
With attention gradually shifting toward Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, he stressed that young citizens must prepare early by registering to vote, scrutinizing candidates and supporting leaders they believe in.
“Neutrality is no longer an option,” he said. “The decisions we make in 2027 will shape our shared future.”
Gold-Nnachi also emphasized the need for leadership built on merit, unity and accountability, arguing that governance improves when talent and competence are recognized across sectors.
“We need leaders who see and respect the potential in others,” he said. “Good governance flourishes where merit is rewarded and unity is promoted.”
He encouraged professionals to contribute beyond the ballot box, by serving as advisers, mentors and policy contributors, noting that political participation extends beyond contesting elections.
“We cannot keep complaining about insecurity or poor leadership if we are unwilling to be involved in the process,” he added.
Manufar Matasa is an organization focused on youth empowerment and political participation. The event concluded with goodwill messages and symbolic celebrations marking Gold-Nnachi’s birthday.
As Nigeria’s youthful population continues to expand, observers say the political engagement of young voters could significantly influence the country’s direction in the coming years.
