The Northwestern Part of Nigeria has the highest number of youth representation in the forthcoming 2023 general elections, according to a report by Yiaga Africa.
In a report published by Yiaga Africa under its #RunToWin Project supported by Voice, the Group revealed that the NorthWest zone (28%) has the highest youth representation, followed by North Central (19%).
The South East, at 11%, has the lowest representation of youth in the election. In contrast, there is a significant increase in the proportion of youth candidates in the northern zones compared to 2019, and the southern zone witnessed a decrease.
Notwithstanding, there is a higher number of young female candidates in the South (78), South-South (84), South West (88), compared to the North (North Central – 70, North East – 30, North West – 50), generally, there are more male than female candidates in all zones.
The report also revealed the ranking of youth-friendly parties. Based on the ranking of political parties on youth candidacy, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ranks 1st for nominating the highest number of youth candidates. Labour party ranks 6th, New Nigerian People’s Party ranks 3rd, People’s Democratic Party (PDP) ranks 13th, All Progressive Congress (APC) ranks 15th.
Also to note is the poor representation of young female candidates on the list of candidates. 11% of youth candidates are female.
Among the young candidates, 7 individuals representing 0.2% belong to persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the 2023 election.