Arise TV recently featured an interview with Senator Ireti Kingibe, who represents the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Kingibe spoke highly of the youth of Nigeria and their potential to influence the country’s destiny. In reaction to claims that she is affiliated with the “Obidient” movement—a term used to describe the younger members of Peter Obi’s Labour Party—the senator made the following comments.
In response to the remark, “An ordinary person listening to you will say what you are saying is typical Obidient talk,” Senator Kingibe used the chance to draw attention to the generation gap while highlighting the significance of youth voices in national conversations. “I turned 70 early this week,” said Kingibe, “and I think that my mindset will be a little bit different from the average Obidients who are all young people.” This open admission of her age and the possibility of a generational divide paved the way for a more extensive conversation about young people’s participation in politics.
Even while she acknowledged the differences, Senator Kingibe pushed for more youth representation in Nigerian politics. As she put it, “We cannot look away from the fact that 70% of our population is under 40,” highlighting the demographic reality that influences Nigeria’s present and future. The senator’s remarks demonstrate the increasing awareness of the importance of young people in the political scene of the nation. In his plea for a more inclusive style of leadership, Kingibe stressed the importance of taking into account “this is how young people feel and this is how they think” while making decisions.
Senator Kingibe made a strong speech that touched many people when she said, “This is their time and we need to listen to them.” The growing impact of young Nigerians on political discourse and policymaking is recognised by this sentiment. The words made by Kingibe coincide with a historical high in youth involvement in Nigerian politics, as groups such as the “Obidients” are inspiring the younger generation to become more politically involved……….See More