Babatunde Raji Fashola Slams Party Elders: “If It’s Important to Us, It Must Be Important to Them!”

Babatunde Raji Fashola, Former Governor of Lagos State has challenged the All Progressives Congress (APC) to reform its reward system, warning that the future of the party depends on how well it can attract, empower, and retain young people. The former Lagos State Governor questioned the level of youth involvement in party activities, asking: “How many of our children are involved in what we’re doing?” His remarks have sparked intense debate within political circles nationwide.

Babatunde Fashola stressed that true political succession will fail without intentional investment in the next generation of leaders. He noted that many party elders expect loyalty, yet fail to mentor or carry young people along. According to him, if the APC considers its mission important, then the party must also make young Nigerians see it as important. Analysts say his message is a direct wake-up call to the ruling party.

Babatunde Fashola further emphasized that youth inclusion is not about tokenism, but about leadership transition and ownership. He believes a structured reward system that recognizes youth contributions is essential for sustainable politics. His comments have revived conversation about the widening gap between Nigeria’s political leadership and its youthful population.

Babatunde Fashola Says Rallies and Campaigns Must Reflect the Party’s Future

Babatunde Fashola questioned why APC rallies and campaigns remain dominated by older politicians, even though youths form the majority of Nigeria’s population. He stated: “How many of our children come to our rallies and campaigns?” and argued that visual and active youth participation must become a priority. Political observers say his criticism points to a serious structural weakness in current party strategy.

Babatunde Fashola noted that a party that cannot inspire its own children and protégés is building a short-term house of cards. He warned that the APC risks losing moral legitimacy among young voters, many of whom already feel alienated from mainstream politics. His comments align with growing youth agitation for political relevance since the #NotTooYoungToRun movement.

Babatunde Fashola has therefore urged the APC to rebrand its political culture, modernize its messaging, and bridge the generational gap. He insists that Nigerian youths must move from “spectators to stakeholders” in the nation’s political journey. His speech has drawn applause from reform-minded party members and criticism from conservative blocs.

Fashola Pushes for Mentorship, Reward, and Youth-Driven Leadership

Babatunde Fashola called for a structured mentorship ladder that rewards loyalty, intelligence, hard work, and innovation among young party members. He said true leadership is measured by how many successors are raised — not how long an individual occupies power. His reform message aligns with global democratic trends emphasizing youth integration.

Babatunde Fashola explained that the APC must build a political environment where young people can rise from mobilizers to policymakers, not remain perpetual aides and crowd-warmers. He argued that this is the only way the party can protect its legacy and remain competitive in the future. His rallying cry is already inspiring conversation among youth blocs within the APC.

Babatunde Fashola concluded that if elders believe in the future of Nigeria, then they must hand young people the tools, opportunities, and platform to lead. By advocating a reward-based system driven by merit and inclusion, the former governor has positioned himself as one of the leading voices for internal party reform in Nigeria.