CYDAN President Advocates Grassroots Youth Inclusion as Key to Nigeria’s Democratic Future

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Seun Akinyele: CYDAN National President

By Victor Olubiye

The National President of the Constituencies Youths Development Association of Nigeria (CYDAN), Seun Akinyele, has called for greater grassroots youth participation in governance, describing young Nigerians as critical stakeholders in securing the country's democratic future.


Akinyele made the call in a statement outlining CYDAN's vision for youth-led development and democratic engagement across Nigeria's 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.


According to him, Nigeria's democratic progress cannot be sustained solely through leadership at the federal and state levels but must be strengthened through active participation at the constituency and community levels.


He noted that local communities remain the foundation of the country's democratic structure and argued that empowering young people to engage in governance, accountability, and development initiatives would foster long-term national growth.


Focus on Grassroots Mobilisation

Akinyele said CYDAN is expanding its presence across constituencies nationwide to ensure that the voices of young people, particularly those in rural and semi-urban communities, are represented in national discussions.


He explained that the association aims to build structured youth networks capable of translating grassroots ideas into actionable policies and development programmes.


"The true heartbeat of Nigeria lies within its local communities, powered by the energy, intellect, and resilience of its youth," he stated.

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Push for Legislative Reforms

The youth leader also advocated institutional and legislative reforms to strengthen youth representation in governance.


While acknowledging previous gains in youth participation, including reforms that reduced age requirements for elective offices, Akinyele said more structural changes are needed to create opportunities for competent young leaders.


He proposed reforms within youth parliamentary structures, including the adoption of a bicameral system designed to enhance representation across different regions and demographics.


According to him, leadership opportunities should be determined by competence, capacity, and character rather than financial influence.


Economic Empowerment and Democratic Participation

Akinyele further stressed the importance of economic empowerment as a prerequisite for meaningful democratic engagement.


He argued that economically vulnerable youths are more susceptible to manipulation and exploitation during political processes.


To address this challenge, he said CYDAN is committed to promoting entrepreneurship, vocational development, and digital literacy initiatives aimed at improving economic independence among young Nigerians.


"When young people are economically secure, they are better positioned to make independent decisions and contribute meaningfully to democratic processes," he said.


Building Future Leaders

The CYDAN President maintained that youth organisations must uphold discipline, accountability, and professionalism if they are to demand improved governance from public institutions.


He described the association as a platform for grooming future leaders through strategic thinking, responsible advocacy, and constructive engagement.


According to him, the organisation seeks to promote a results-oriented approach to youth development rather than confrontational activism.


National Executive Inauguration Scheduled for September

Looking ahead, Akinyele announced that CYDAN's National Executive Inauguration is scheduled to take place in September 2026 in Abuja.


He said the event would mark a significant milestone in the association's efforts to strengthen youth participation in national development and democratic governance.


The inauguration, he added, will bring together youth leaders and stakeholders from across the country to advance discussions on constituency development, leadership, and civic engagement.


Akinyele urged young Nigerians to take active roles in shaping their communities, insisting that the future of the country depends on organized youth participation and collective action at the grassroots level.


"The era of waiting for an invitation to the table is over. Through structure, order and a shared vision, we are building our own table," he said.

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