Former National President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Comrade Lucky Emonefe, has endorsed Action Youth for Sustainable Development (AYSD), describing the group as a strategic sociopolitical platform designed to deepen grassroots political participation across Nigeria.
Comrade Emonefe gave the endorsement in Abuja ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) national congress, where he expressed strong solidarity with the vision and objectives of AYSD, noting that the group aligns with the aspirations of young Nigerians seeking greater inclusion in governance.
Speaking during the engagement, Emonefe emphasized the importance of organized youth-driven platforms in shaping the country’s political future. He said AYSD represents a timely intervention in mobilizing young people to move beyond passive political involvement to active participation.
“AYSD is not just another group; it is a movement that has the potential to redefine how young people engage with governance at the grassroots. Our democracy can only thrive when the youth are actively involved,” he stated.
The former NANS leader, who is also a House of Representatives hopeful for the Ethiope Federal Constituency, described AYSD as a vehicle for leadership development, civic responsibility, and accountability in public service.
“We must begin to build structures that empower young people, not only to vote but to lead, to question, and to contribute meaningfully to nation-building. AYSD provides that platform,” Emonefe added.
He further urged political stakeholders, particularly within the APC, to create more opportunities for youth inclusion, stressing that sustainable development can only be achieved when young people are given a seat at the decision-making table.
“As we approach the APC national congress, there is a need to prioritize youth engagement. The future of this country depends on how well we integrate young voices into our political processes today,” he said.
Comrade Emonefe also called on youths across the country to align with credible organizations like AYSD to amplify their voices and drive positive change within their communities.
In his remarks, the Convener of AYSD, Comrade Edas Joel welcomed the endorsement, describing it as a significant boost to their mission of promoting inclusive governance, political awareness, and sustainable development at the grassroots level.
The group reaffirmed its commitment to mobilizing young Nigerians towards constructive political participation, policy advocacy, and community development initiatives aimed at strengthening democratic institutions in the country.
