Federal Capital Territory (FCT) senator Ireti Kingibe was recently the subject of an interview on Arise TV. According to Kingibe, Nigeria's youth have the power to shape the country's future. The senator responded to charges that she is associated with the "Obidient" movement, a name for the younger members of Peter Obi's Labour Party, by making the following statements.
When someone said, "An ordinary person listening to you will say what you are saying is typical Obidient talk," Senator Kingibe took the opportunity to bring up the generation gap and how important it is for youth voices to be heard in national talks. "I turned 70 early this week," he continued, "and I think that my mindset will be a little bit different from the average Obidients who are all young people." A more in-depth discussion regarding the involvement of young people in politics was made possible by her candid acknowledgment of her age and the potential existence of a generational divide.
Senator Kingibe advocated for a younger generation to have a stronger voice in Nigerian politics, despite her recognition of the distinctions. According to her, "We cannot look away from the fact that 70% of our population is under 40," elaborating on the demographic reality that shapes Nigeria's current and future possibilities. There is a growing recognition of the significance of youth in American politics, as the senator's statements show. The significance of considering "this is how young people feel and this is how they think" while making decisions was emphasized by Kingibe in his call for a more inclusive leadership approach.
While speaking, Senator Kingibe remarked, "This is their time and we need to listen to them." Her powerful words moved many. Having this opinion reflects the increasing influence of young Nigerians in Nigerian politics and government. At the same time that Kingibe is speaking, there has never been a greater surge of young people getting involved in Nigerian politics, with organizations like the "Obidients" serving as role models for the next generation.