Former Labour Party vice-presidential candidate Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed has renewed his call for a generational overhaul in Nigeria’s political leadership, insisting the nation cannot progress by recycling the same politicians
Reflecting on his decades-long political interactions with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Datti highlighted that Atiku has repeatedly sought the presidency, noting their repeated contests in party primaries over the years.
“When I was serving my NYSC, Baba Atiku was already an aspirant. In 2018 we contested primaries together, in 2023 again, and for God’s sake, in 2027 too?” Datti remarked on Friday, questioning the sustainability of continuous bids by longstanding political figures amid Nigeria’s mounting social and economic challenges.
He argued that the country’s issues require fresh perspectives and energetic leadership rather than recycled ambitions and old political calculations. “There is a need for a new generation of Nigerian leaders, and they exist. Many are ready to take the reins and lead the nation in a new direction,” he said.
Datti also criticised Nigeria’s political system, describing it as hostile to competent individuals genuinely interested in public service. He noted that many capable Nigerians are discouraged by a system dominated by godfathers, heavy financial barriers, and empty promises.
“Until the political environment becomes more accessible and fair, Nigeria will continue to miss out on the contributions of its best minds,” he added.
The former lawmaker concluded that millions of Nigerians are waiting for honest, selfless leadership capable of uniting the country and tackling its deep-rooted challenges. Meaningful change, he insisted, will only come when a new generation is empowered to shape Nigeria’s future.
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