Old politicians blocking the rise of young leaders

Nigeria’s historical narrative is characterised by both advancements and challenges, frequently disrupted by military coups. Although these interventions have allowed some young leaders to rise, particularly within the military ranks, this pattern has not been mirrored in civilian governance. A significant obstacle for young Nigerians aiming to engage meaningfully in the political landscape is age, which often presents a formidable barrier. While leaders such as Yakubu Gowon and Murtala Mohammed attained recognition at relatively young ages during military regimes, their instances are more historical outliers than indicative of the current political climate. In modern civilian politics, young aspirants often face a myriad of challenges that impede their pathways to leadership.

“Consequently, the system perpetuates a cycle that sidelines fresh ideas and youthful vigour in favour of established norms and the prevailing status quo.”

A critical impediment is the entrenched significance of established personal networks. These networks are essential for garnering support and influence, and they typically require significant time and effort to establish, often spanning years or decades. As young politicians frequently lack the time and resources to develop such extensive connections, they find themselves at a considerable disadvantage. This predicament is exacerbated by the pervasive influence of seasoned politicians who dominate the political landscape, controlling party structures, leveraging substantial financial resources, and exploiting long-standing loyalties. Consequently, the system perpetuates a cycle that sidelines fresh ideas and youthful vigour in favour of established norms and the prevailing status quo.

Financial limitations further contribute to the challenges faced by young political aspirants. Political campaigns in Nigeria necessitate considerable funding, and access to such resources typically hinges on existing connections and financial backers. Young candidates, who often lack established networks, struggle to obtain the financial support essential for their success. This reliance on financial backing fosters an environment in which loyalty is frequently aligned with financial contributions, complicating the landscape for emerging leaders who may have limited access to such resources.

Read also: Ibim examines dilemma of successor-leaders in balancing loyalty versus autonomy

Moreover, young leaders fortunate enough to navigate the political arena often find themselves operating in the shadows of more experienced figures. While mentorship can be beneficial, it can also raise concerns regarding political independence and autonomy. Young politicians may struggle to assert their individual vision and implement their strategies, constrained by the lingering influence of seasoned mentors. This dilemma underscores the necessity for systemic reforms that empower authentic youth leadership, enabling young individuals to carve their paths and contribute their distinct viewpoints to political discussions.

The issue transcends merely generating interest among young people to engage in politics; it entails establishing a level playing field that offers them genuine opportunities to compete and lead. While discussions regarding youth empowerment abound, they frequently overlook the systemic obstacles confronting young politicians. While encouraging statements are appreciated, they must be coupled with concrete actions that foster authentic opportunities for youth empowerment and leadership. This encompasses reforms aimed at refining campaign finance regulations, enhancing transparency within party structures, and facilitating avenues for young individuals to gain experience and expand their networks.

Indeed, cultivating political networks is a long-term pursuit, yet it should not pose an insurmountable challenge for aspiring young politicians. Strategic initiatives are required to support young leaders during this journey. Mentorship programs, resource allocation, and engagement platforms can assist them in overcoming existing barriers. These strategies are crucial for nurturing the next generation of leaders, ensuring that their perspectives are acknowledged. Furthermore, fostering a culture of intergenerational collaboration, whereby seasoned politicians share their insights and expertise with younger candidates, can help create a more inclusive and vibrant political atmosphere.

Forming new networks and coalitions is essential for young politicians. By connecting with like-minded individuals and organisations, they can develop a support system that amplifies their voices and enhances their influence. This includes forging alliances across generational divides and encouraging collaboration between young and seasoned politicians who share a unified vision for Nigeria’s future. Such partnerships can grant young politicians access to invaluable resources, mentorship, and political capital, while simultaneously benefiting from the energy, innovation, and fresh insights that youth bring to the dialogue.

Ultimately, dismantling age barriers in Nigerian politics necessitates a collective commitment. Young individuals must be encouraged to actively engage in the political process, while society must embrace transformative change. This involves challenging longstanding age conventions, promoting intergenerational dialogue, and creating a political framework that prioritizes merit, competence, and innovative ideas, irrespective of the age of the contributor. By addressing the obstacles that currently hinder young people’s political ambitions, we can harness the immense potential of Nigeria’s youth and construct a more inclusive, dynamic, and prosperous future for all.