By: Joy Musa
In a fiery declaration ahead of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) elections, a coalition of youth groups from across Nigeria’s North-East region North East League Of Youth Democrats has voiced firm support for Comrade Abdullahi Ibrahim to serve as Zonal Vice President. The group, citing Ibrahim’s wealth of experience and proven leadership credentials, dismissed the candidacy of Comrade Abdulmajeed Zakariyya Muhammad, questioning his suitability for the pivotal role.
Loading ...The coalition praised Comrade Ibrahim’s years of service in youth advocacy, noting his impactful tenure as President of the National Union of Bauchi State Students (NUBASS) and leadership in multiple youth-focused initiatives. “He has consistently demonstrated unity, progressive vision, and the courage to speak truth to power,” the statement read. “From student unionism to community-based mobilization, his contributions have shaped youth development across the region.”
According to the group, Ibrahim’s agenda reflects the aspirations of youth longing for competent representation one that actively engages with their struggles, provides inclusive opportunities, and fosters sustained development.
In a pointed rebuttal, the statement criticized Comrade Abdulmajeed Zakariyya Muhammad’s candidacy, labeling it as politically motivated and lacking depth. The coalition accused Zakariyya of being a “political stooge” backed by external forces, including a Senior Special Assistant to the President, whom they claim has failed to amplify youth voices in recent years.
“Zakariyya has no track record in student unionism or grassroots struggles. The leadership we deserve requires not just slogans of advocacy but real, lived commitment something he has not shown,” the group asserted. They went on to challenge the authenticity of Zakariyya’s campaign declarations, describing them as “flimsy and devoid of substance.”
With emotions running high, the group issued a rallying call to all delegates, youth stakeholders, and civil society organizations. “Let us reject imposition. Let us reject pretenders. Let us vote for vision and competence,” they declared. Their call resounded with enthusiasm, urging young people in the region to recognize the weight of their votes in shaping future leadership.
The group emphasized that the upcoming NYCN election is not merely a contest of personalities, but a defining moment for youth empowerment and regional progress. Their position underscores a broader movement demanding authenticity, transparency, and merit-based leadership within youth organizations.
As the countdown to the NYCN elections intensifies, observers note that the North-East zone will be a key battleground in determining the Council’s trajectory. For many youth in the region, the race has become a referendum on grassroots legitimacy and transformative leadership.
Both camps are expected to continue campaigning vigorously, but the endorsement for Abdullahi Ibrahim bolstered by his community roots and proven leadership may tip the scale in his favor.
Whether delegates heed the call or chart a different course remains to be seen. One thing is clear: the youth of the North-East are ready to be heard.
