Osita Chidoka, a former Minister of Aviation and public policy advocate, has renewed his call for greater youth participation in Nigeria’s leadership, arguing that the country’s political system has become dominated by older leaders despite historical evidence that younger individuals have successfully governed the nation.
Speaking during an interview from 0:10 on Gbam Interview on Friday, 7 August, 2026, Chidoka expressed concern over the increasing age of Nigeria’s political leadership, saying the country should deliberately create opportunities for younger and capable Nigerians to occupy the highest offices in government.
Drawing a comparison between past and present leaders, Chidoka said, “All our presidents are now 60 and above, and now we are getting closer to 80. Babangida was 44 when he became Head of State. Buhari was 42. I was 42 when I left as minister.”
He argued that Nigeria’s political history demonstrates that age has never been the sole determinant of leadership ability. According to him, some of the country’s leaders assumed major responsibilities in their early 40s, proving that competence and vision are more important than advanced age.
Chidoka maintained that the country’s youthful population should be reflected in its leadership, stressing that younger politicians possess the energy, innovation and fresh perspectives needed to address Nigeria’s economic and governance challenges.