28/04/2026
COMMUNIQUÉ ISSUED BY THE ALL PROGRESSIVES CONGRESS, APC, YOUTH LEADERS AT THE STATE, LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND WARD LEVELS ON YOUTH INCLUSION IN GOVERNANCE AND PARTICIPATORY DEMOCRACY
Date: 21 April 2026
Preamble
We, the Youth Leaders of the All Progressives Congress, APC, drawn from the State, Local Government, and Ward levels, having convened in a spirit of unity, responsibility, and progressive engagement, held exhaustive deliberations on the future of our Party and the indispensable role of young people in shaping governance in Nigeria.
Guided by the enduring principle that “the future belongs to those who prepare for it today,” and mindful of the saying that “youth are not only the leaders of tomorrow, but partners in progress today,” we affirm that the strength, sustainability, and electoral vitality of our great Party are inextricably tied to the active inclusion of its youthful population.
Recognising that democracy thrives on participation, fairness, and generational balance, we underscore that meaningful youth inclusion must transcend rhetoric and ceremonial appointments, and must be reflected in tangible opportunities within the elective political space.
Communiqué
After thorough and constructive deliberations, we hereby resolve as follows:
1. That the All Progressives Congress, APC, as a progressive and forward-looking Party, must deliberately institutionalise youth inclusion across all strata of governance, ensuring that young people are not merely mobilisers, but decision makers and policy drivers.
2. That the time has come for the Party to demonstrate practical commitment to participatory democracy by creating enabling pathways for competent and committed young members to contest for elective offices at all levels, including the Presidency, Governorship, National Assembly, State Houses of Assembly, and Local Government Councils.
3. That youth participation must not be limited to appointive roles, but must extend to the equitable allocation of party tickets, recognising merit, capacity, loyalty, and grassroots engagement as key determinants.
4. That the Party leadership at all levels is urged to adopt clear, transparent, and youth-friendly policies that will lower structural barriers, including financial and procedural constraints, which often hinder young aspirants.
5. That mentorship frameworks should be strengthened within the Party to allow experienced leaders to guide, support, and prepare young members for leadership responsibilities, thereby ensuring continuity and stability.
6. That deliberate quotas or affirmative considerations should be explored to guarantee a reasonable percentage of elective positions for qualified youths, in line with global democratic best practices.
7. That the APC must position itself as the Party of generational inclusion by embracing innovation, fresh ideas, and the dynamism that young people bring into governance and political development.
8. That unity, loyalty, and discipline remain paramount, and we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the ideals, leadership, and electoral success of our great Party.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we respectfully call on our revered Party leaders to rise to the occasion of history by embracing this noble cause. As the saying goes, “a society that fails to harness the energy of its youth mortgages its future.” The future we speak of is not distant, it is already upon us, and it demands bold, inclusive, and visionary action.
We reiterate that our demand is not a concession, but a rightful place in the democratic process, earned through dedication, competence, and consistent service to the Party.
Let it be known that we stand ready, prepared, and committed to contribute meaningfully to governance, if given the opportunity.
Signed:
Osun State APC Youth Leader.
Alh. Akinwemimo Olagoke
“Our tomorrow must begin today.”
