By Gloria Essien, Abuja
The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has called on young Nigerians to actively participate in the ongoing constitutional review process to ensure their voices are reflected in the nation’s governance framework.
Kalu made the call when fellows from the Emerging Political Leaders Fellowship Programme of The Bridge Leadership Foundation (TBLF), Calabar, paid him a courtesy visit at the National Assembly, Abuja.
He emphasised that young people must not only be heard but must also make a tangible difference in shaping Nigeria’s democratic future.
“Enhance youth participation in governance through institutionalised mentorship programmes, internship placements, and inclusion in committee hearings,” Kalu said.
“Support skills development and entrepreneurship initiatives, linking legislative oversight to programmes that increase youth economic participation.”
According to the Deputy Speaker, the Federal Government has aligned its policies to complement these legislative efforts through programmes such as the National Youth Investment Fund, enhanced National Youth Service Scheme, and other empowerment initiatives.
He noted that the government has committed to achieving a 30% youth inclusion target in governance.
As Chairman of the House Committee on Constitution Review, Kalu said that the committee had compiled 86 bills across 13 thematic areas, including governance, devolution, legislative oversight, and inclusive representation.
He urged young Nigerians to attend zonal hearings, submit memoranda, and advocate for youth and women’s leadership.
“Constitutional reform is not a theoretical exercise; it is the architecture of our democracy and the scaffolding of our institutions,” he said.
He stressed that emerging leaders must demonstrate political courage, strategic thinking, and competence, adding that leadership influence is earned through service and integrity.
“Your generation must close the gap between demographic strength and political influence, ensuring that youth perspectives are central, not peripheral, to national development,” he added.
Kalu commended The Bridge Leadership Foundation and its founder, former Cross River State Governor, Mr. Liyel Imoke, for fostering mentorship and promoting ethical leadership among young Nigerians.
“I salute former Governor Imoke for his sustained vision and quiet, effective statesmanship — proof that true leadership extends far beyond tenure,” Kalu said.
In his remarks, Mr. Imoke explained that the fellowship, which began four years ago, is designed to prepare young Nigerians for responsible leadership.
He said fellows undergo a six-month leadership training culminating in a capstone presentation before graduation.
“We need leaders who are not just leaders by title, but who are groomed and purposeful. These young men and women represent exceptional Nigerians from 32 states,” Imoke said.