By BUKAR Mohammed | Political and Policy Analyst | Kano
Kano, Nigeria —
A growing wave of concern is spreading across northern Nigeria as many young people begin to question the legacy of their region’s leadership. Amid economic hardship, rising insecurity, and the strain on social services, northern youth are breaking their silence, calling for accountability and a renewed sense of responsibility from the elders who once inspired admiration.
This movement is not driven by hostility but by a deep desire for justice and change. At a recent gathering in Kaduna, a youth leader voiced the sentiment of many:
“You chose your pockets over your people. And now we struggle. We cannot celebrate a wealth built on neglect.”
These words resonated because they reflect a broader truth: Northern Nigeria, once a beacon of culture, learning, and commerce, now battles rising unemployment, widespread poverty, declining education, and weakened healthcare systems. For many young northerners, this is not the result of fate, but of systemic failures — especially in governance.
A youth activist from Borno put it this way:
“This is not a message of anger. It is a call for reflection. We are the generation left behind, asking sincere questions about the choices made on our behalf. The silence from our leaders is no longer acceptable.”
In places once known for quiet deference to elders, public conversations are evolving. At schools, markets, and mosques, young people are asking hard questions. They want to know why resources meant for public good appear absent and why opportunities seem reserved for a few.
“They built comfort while our schools fell apart,”
noted a student from Zaria.
“They secured their children’s future while we face daily threats from insecurity. They made promises while many of us still wait for basic hope.”
As political maneuverings resume ahead of another election cycle, youth are paying attention. Deals are being struck, alignments formed, but the younger generation is more informed than ever — and more willing to engage.
A protester in Bauchi shared this reminder:
“We’ve seen this before. But this time, people are alert. ‘Idon talak’a ya bude’ — the eyes of the ordinary people are open. The rhythm must change, and so must the dance.”
This Hausa proverb has become a quiet but powerful motto — a call for new leadership values rooted in humility, service, and equity.
Recent unrest in places like Kano, including protests near the residence of a former speaker, underscore the urgency of this message. For many, these events are not about vengeance but a plea for a new path — one that avoids repeating the mistakes of the past.
“We want peace, not chaos,”
said a youth coordinator in Kano.
“But peace requires fairness. It requires listening. If you keep ignoring the younger generation, don’t be surprised when the consequences become visible.”
This rising generation seeks not to destroy but to build. They want a northern Nigeria that honors the past while boldly confronting the future. One that remembers the contributions of its elders — but also acknowledges the gaps left behind.
“We will not erase our history,”
said a protester in Sokoto.
“But we must correct it. We will shape a new North — one that prioritizes people over power.”
The message is clear: Northern youth are no longer content with passive admiration or empty rhetoric. They want leadership that listens, learns, and leads with integrity.
The response from the elders is still pending. But on the streets — and in the hearts of many — the conversation has already begun.
Sai a bi a hankali — Tread carefully.
BUKAR Mohammed is a political and policy analyst based in Kano.
