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Nigeria’s Proposed Age Limit for Presidency and Governorship Sparks Debate

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A proposed bill in Nigeria's House of Representatives seeking to bar individuals above 60 years from contesting for the presidency or governorship has ignited widespread debate. The bill, sponsored by Imo lawmaker Ikenga Ugochinyere, recently passed its second reading in the lower legislative chamber.

If enacted, this law would disqualify major political figures, including President Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, from contesting in the 2027 election.

Key Provisions of the Bill

The proposed amendment to Nigeria's 1999 Constitution includes two major criteria for presidential and governorship aspirants:

  • A minimum of a university-level education with a Bachelor's degree.
  • A maximum age limit of 60 years at the time of contesting for office.

This move has received mixed reactions from various segments of the population.

Youth Support and Calls for Reform

Nigerian youths, who have long voiced concerns about being sidelined in governance, have largely welcomed the bill. Many view it as an extension of the Not-Too-Young-To-Run law signed in 2018, which reduced the age requirements for key political offices. Despite that legislation, older politicians have continued to dominate leadership positions, prompting fresh calls for generational change in governance.

Opposition to the Bill

However, some political analysts and leaders have dismissed the bill as unnecessary and unconstitutional. Osita Okechukwu, former Director-General of Voice of Nigeria (VON), argued that Nigeria's primary challenge is not age but the need for comprehensive electoral reform. He emphasized that deep-seated corruption and structural issues within the electoral system must be addressed first.

Similarly, former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore criticized the bill, stating that any form of discrimination, including age-based restrictions, would not stand in Nigerian law. He suggested that the bill might be a distraction from more pressing governance issues.

The Need for Younger Leadership?

Some political observers argue that a younger leadership could bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to Nigeria's governance challenges. Terzulum Ukpanya, a former Labour Party candidate, believes that older politicians have primarily focused on self-enrichment rather than national development. He cited the leadership of France, where President Emmanuel Macron took office at 39, as an example of youth-driven governance in action.

What Lies Ahead?

While the bill has passed its second reading, it still faces several legislative hurdles before becoming law. Even if approved by the National Assembly, it would require the president’s assent—raising doubts about its chances of success given that many current leaders exceed the proposed age limit.

The debate over this bill underscores a broader global conversation about leadership renewal, political inclusion, and the role of younger generations in shaping the future of governance.

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