The 2023 Labour Party vice-presidential candidate, Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, has called for a generational shift in Nigeria’s political leadership, stressing the need for new leaders to address the country’s challenges.
Baba-Ahmed made the remarks on Friday during an appearance on Channels Television, reflecting on his political journey alongside former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. He noted that Atiku had been contesting for the presidency since his time in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
“When I was doing my NYSC, Baba Atiku was an aspirant, and in 2018 we contested primaries together,” he said. He added that he again faced Atiku during the 2023 general election, highlighting the repetitive nature of political leadership in the country.
Baba-Ahmed emphasised that Nigeria needs a fresh generation of leaders, noting that many capable Nigerians are ready to serve but are discouraged by the country’s political system. “There are good Nigerians, people capable of solving Nigeria’s problems, but they are discouraged by the expensive, difficult, treacherous system full of godfathers and bad promises,” he said.
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He further stressed that a new generation is ready to take on leadership roles if given the opportunity, and called for a system that encourages credible and competent leaders.
Baba-Ahmed also dismissed recent reports suggesting that he had declared his intention to contest the presidency, describing such claims as false. He concluded by reiterating that many qualified Nigerians are waiting for credible leadership to help address the nation’s problems.