The Remarkable Success and Impact of the Not Too Young To Run Bill in Nigerian Politics, By Adnan Mukhtar
Introduction
The Not Too Young To Run Bill has been a transformative force in Nigerian politics, paving the way for the emergence of a new generation of leaders who are driving change at local, state, and national levels. Enacted to address the age barrier that hindered young people from participating in politics, the bill has provided an opportunity for individuals as young as 25 to contest for state House of Assembly offices and House of Representatives positions, while the age requirement for the Senate and Presidential offices is set at 30 and 35, respectively. This groundbreaking legislation has shifted the dynamics of Nigerian politics and empowered the youth to actively engage in the governance of their nation.
The Rise of Young Aspirants
In 2019, the Nigerian political landscape witnessed a surge in young aspirants seeking elective positions, fueled by the opportunities presented by the Not Too Young To Run Bill. Notable figures like Ahmad Buhari and Adamu Garba threw their hats into the ring for the presidency, demonstrating that age was no longer a barrier to aspiring for the highest office in the land. However, it wasn’t until 2022 that the impact of the bill became even more pronounced, as numerous young aspirants not only contested but triumphed in their party primaries and the subsequent general elections. This marked a significant turning point in Nigerian politics, showcasing the effectiveness of youth engagement.
The Scope of Change: Youth Representation and Empowerment
As the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) geared up for the 2023 general elections, a staggering 15,336 candidates were nominated by eighteen political parties for various positions, including the presidency, governorships, and legislative seats. While Nigeria’s population predominantly comprises individuals aged 18 to 35, youth representation in the political arena has traditionally been limited. However, the Not Too Young To Run Bill has started to change this narrative. Post-2019 elections, the National Assembly saw a notable increase in youth representation, with 0.6% of seats occupied by youth. This pattern was mirrored in thirty-four State Houses of Assembly, where 6% of seats were held by youth. Additionally, local government assemblies experienced a surge in youth representation at 29.7%.
Constitutional Reforms and Youth Participation
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The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as altered), outlines four fundamental requirements for contesting elections: citizenship, age, education, and political party sponsorship. Before the Not Too Young To Run Bill, the age criterion for several offices was a barrier for many young aspirants. Sections 131(b), 65(1)(a), 65(1)(b), and 106(b) outlined age limits for presidential, senatorial, House of Representatives, and House of Assembly candidates, respectively. However, with the bill’s enactment, these limitations were reduced, sparking a surge of youth interest and participation in the 2019 General Elections.
Youth Triumphs in the 2023 Elections
The 2023 general elections further underscored the transformative impact of the Not Too Young To Run Bill. Across various constituencies, young candidates defied the odds to secure victories, sending a powerful message about the importance of youth inclusion in politics. In Ogun State’s Ijebu North Constituency 1, 26-year-old Rasheed Kashamu triumphed with 10,004 votes, unseating an incumbent from the All Progressives Party (APC). Similarly, Rukayat Shittu, a 26-year-old from Kwara State, emerged victorious as a new member of the state House of Assembly. Muhammad Adamu Oyanki, representing Nasarawa State’s Doma North Constituency, also achieved a significant win as one of the youngest elected legislators.
The Success of the Not Too Young To Run Bill
The Not Too Young To Run Bill, signed into law in May 2018 by President Muhammadu Buhari, signifies a pivotal moment in Nigerian democracy. By reducing the age requirements for elective positions, the bill broadened the political space for young aspirants, giving rise to a new generation of leaders who are committed to driving positive change. Samson Itodo, Executive Director of the Youth Initiative for Advocacy, Growth & Advancement (YIAGA), described the 2023 elections as historic, highlighting the victories of young beneficiaries of the bill, including two under-29 legislators in the national assembly and four young female legislators below 35 in state assemblies.
Conclusion
The Not Too Young To Run Bill has ignited a transformation in Nigerian politics, enabling young individuals to break through age barriers and contribute to the governance of their nation. The remarkable successes witnessed in the 2019 and 2023 elections reflect the power of youth engagement and representation. As young leaders emerge and challenge established norms, Nigeria’s democratic journey is enriched by their resilience, courage, and commitment to creating a brighter future for all citizens. The bill’s impact is a testament to the potential of constitutional and policy reforms in expanding political horizons and fostering the emergence of new voices in democratic politics.
