Generational Political Shift in Northern Nigeria Emerges

The article outlines a significant generational political shift occurring in Northern Nigeria, particularly in Adamawa State. It emphasizes that Nigeria's population exceeds 200 million, with approximately 60% under the age of 30.

Despite this youthful demographic, political representation remains limited, prompting the 2018 passage of the Not-Too-Young-To-Run Act, which lowered age barriers for political candidacy. This reform has led to about 1,500 candidates under 35 contesting for House of Representatives seats.

Abdulrahman Bashir Hask, a 36-year-old grassroots political activist from Adamawa, exemplifies the new generation of leaders seeking to engage younger citizens in the political landscape. The article also highlights the economic realities faced by the youth, with 1.7 million entering the labor market annually, and the persistent issues of unemployment and underemployment, which are shaping political engagement among young Nigerians.