Petra Onyegbule: ‘Youth Inclusion Strengthens Nigeria’s Democracy’

Former Chief Press Secretary to the immediate past Governor of Kogi State, Petra Akinti Onyegbule, spoke at the seventh annual symposium of the Oladele John Nihi Initiative in Lokoja. She urged political leaders to prepare young Nigerians for leadership through mentorship and meaningful participation. Onyegbule described youth inclusion as good governance rather than tokenism. She said democracy thrives when young people move beyond spectators to active stakeholders. “A nation that excludes its young people from governance impoverishes itself,” she warned. She highlighted the importance of blending experience with youthful innovation. “Experience asks what has worked before; youth ask what else is possible,” she said. Onyegbule praised continuity in governance and called on leaders to sustain viable policies across administrations. She challenged young Nigerians to pair their demands with preparation through education, volunteerism and community service. Onyegbule urged older leaders to invest in emerging talents with trust and opportunities for growth. “Competence must become your loudest campaign,” she added.

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