Commonwealth Youth Council Ask for Youth Integration in Governance

The Commonwealth Youth Council has described the president elect, Muhammadu Buhari’s 100 days covenant with Nigerians as a source of renewed confidence and hope of Nigeria’s greatness. Ahmed Adamu, the Chairperson of the council maintained that the anti-corruption strategies and open government system will institutionalize constitutional democracy in the country. “These are some of the strong values of the Commonwealth,” Adamu said. He however pointed that Gen. Buhari should also integrate youth participation in his government having promised women 35% affirmative participation in governance. “We waited anxiously to see what percentage would be ear-marked for the youths, but we were excluded,” he added. “Considering the youth population in the country (more than 60% of the Nigerian population), and the role we played in ensuring the peaceful and political triumph in this election, we believe that youths should be actively engaged in governance. “There is nothing for youths without youths. We call on the president-elect to review his covenant to accommodate youth participation in governance. A special covenant can be created to promise at least 30% affirmative action for youth participation in governance at all levels. This will help in ensuring inclusive governance in the new administration,” the council chair said.