Towards promoting good governance and deepening democratic values across Nigeria, the leadership of the National Youth Alliance (NYA) has inaugurated 123 Local Government Coordinators in the South-South geo-political zone, reaffirming its commitment to grassroots mobilization and youth-driven governance.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony held in Asaba, Delta State, the NYA Youth President, Ambassador Aliyu Bin Abbas, described the movement as “the only credible platform with a nationwide presence dedicated to defending Nigeria’s democracy and amplifying the voices of young people and women.”
He urged the newly inaugurated coordinators to prioritize inclusion and community engagement.
“Your responsibility is to ensure that youths and women are not left behind. They must be fully integrated into decision-making processes that shape our communities,” Abbas stated.
The NYA President noted that the inauguration marks a major step toward strengthening grassroots governance and holding political leaders accountable to the people.
“We are not anti-government; we are anti-systems that hinder progress. Nigeria belongs to all of us, and the youth must be prepared to lead tomorrow,” he said.
Ambassador Abbas further revealed that the Alliance had initially sought registration as a political party to provide a stronger platform for youth participation ahead of the 2027 general elections but was denied registration by the Independent National Electoral Commission.
Drawing from his experience as a former Special Adviser to ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Abbas emphasized the growing frustration among young Nigerians.
“There are countless young Nigerians yearning for a better future. NYA is committed to preparing them for leadership and ensuring Nigeria has capable successors,” he added.
In goodwill messages, the Senator representing Delta North, Ned Nwoko, represented by Mrs. Ann Nwoko, commended the initiative, describing youths and women as critical to national development. She called for continued support for Sheriff Oborevwori and Bola Tinubu, citing their youth-friendly policies and empowerment programs.
Also speaking, Hon. Bridget Anyafulu, Member representing Oshimili South Constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly, lauded the NYA’s vision, noting that sustained youth engagement is essential for democratic consolidation.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs, Prof. Victor A. Okondi, represented by Vivian Eluwa, encouraged the Alliance to pursue its objectives peacefully and strategically.
“Unity, mentorship, and deliberate preparation are key to producing the next generation of leaders Nigeria needs,” he said.
In an interview, the Delta State Coordinator of the NYA, Comrade Victor Adoh, highlighted the core mission of the movement.
“Our goal is to mobilize support at all levels, liberate Nigerian youths from political marginalization, and promote good governance rooted in transparency and accountability,” Adoh explained.
The highpoint of the event was the formal inauguration of the 123 coordinators drawn from across the South-South zone, with a charge to advocate transparency, accountability, and inclusivity while maintaining respect for existing leadership structures.
The National Youth Alliance reiterated its commitment to mentoring emerging leaders, promoting active civic participation, and ensuring equal opportunities for women in politics as part of efforts to build a more inclusive and democratic Nigeria.
