The Matasan Arewa Youth Development Initiative, a coalition of young northerners who supported President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s campaign during the 2023 general elections, has expressed disappointment over what it described as neglect and lack of inclusion in the current administration.
Speaking during a press briefing in Kano, the National Coordinator of the group, Abba Ibrahim, said despite their efforts in mobilizing grassroots support for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), young people from the North have been sidelined in key government positions and policy discussions.
“We campaigned, we mobilized, and we ensured victory. Yet, nearly two years into this administration, the young people of Arewa who stood at the forefront of this political struggle have been ignored,” Abba said.
He said the group would embark on an awareness tour across the 19 northern states to sensitize communities about the need for greater youth participation in governance and to advocate for inclusion in national development.
According to him, the tour, which will begin in Kano later this month, will feature town hall meetings, media engagements, and community outreach activities aimed at rekindling political consciousness among northern youths.
Abba called on President Tinubu and APC stakeholders to fulfil campaign promises by appointing competent youths into decision-making positions.
“We are not asking for handouts; we are demanding recognition, inclusion, and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to nation-building,” he added.
