APC youth mobilisation director calls on Nigerian youth to back Tinubu’s re‑election campaign

Ibrahim Umar, who heads the North‑East Youth Mobilisation unit of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council, appealed to young Nigerians to take an active role in the party’s drive to return President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to office in the 2027 elections. Speaking in November 2026, Umar highlighted the administration’s reform agenda as a means of tackling the socioeconomic challenges faced by the country’s youth.

Umar, also serving as Director of Engineering and Technical Services at the Nigerian Ports Authority, said the Tinubu government had laid a solid foundation for young people’s aspirations. He urged youths who aspire to elective office to present clear manifestos and contribute to national development, stressing that participation in decision‑making processes is essential for shaping the society they desire.

He emphasized the need for youth employment within government structures, arguing that without direct involvement, meaningful change would be difficult to achieve. Umar called for a non‑toxic political environment, urging honesty and ambition among young Nigerians, and stressed that the nation’s future depends on collaborative effort between the government and its younger citizens.

Background

The APC, Nigeria’s ruling party, is preparing for the 2027 presidential election, seeking a second term for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice‑President Kashim Shettima. The party’s campaign strategy includes targeted youth mobilisation, particularly in the North‑East region, where unemployment and educational challenges are pronounced. Umar’s dual role in the party and the Nigerian Ports Authority reflects the administration’s broader effort to integrate technocratic expertise into political outreach.

Tinubu’s first term has been marked by a series of reforms aimed at improving infrastructure, expanding access to education, and creating job opportunities. According to Umar, initiatives such as a university tuition fund have already benefitted students who previously faced exclusion due to financial constraints. He also referenced the government’s fiscal policies, noting that the state does not sustain unsustainable subsidy levels, which he implied could free resources for youth programmes.

Why it matters

Umar’s appeal targets a demographic that constitutes a significant portion of Nigeria’s electorate. By encouraging youth participation, the APC hopes to secure a voter base that can influence the election outcome. The emphasis on employment within government positions and the promise of continued reforms aim to address high youth unemployment rates, which have been a source of social tension.

If the APC’s message resonates, it could bolster Tinubu’s re‑election prospects and ensure policy continuity. Conversely, a lack of youth engagement may weaken the party’s electoral strength, given the demographic’s growing political awareness. The call for non‑toxic politics also reflects broader concerns about corruption and governance, issues that have historically affected voter confidence.

What happens next

The APC’s campaign timetable for the 2027 election is set to intensify throughout 2027, with regional mobilisation drives scheduled across the country. Umar’s North‑East Youth Mobilisation unit is expected to organise workshops, town‑hall meetings, and outreach programmes aimed at educating young voters about the administration’s achievements and future plans. The party has indicated that further statements from senior officials will outline specific policy proposals targeting youth employment and education as the election approaches.