Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has raised concerns over the age of presidential contenders in Nigeria, arguing that the country needs younger and more energetic leadership.
Amaechi, a presidential aspirant under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), pointed to the recent election of a 49-year-old president in the Benin Republic as a model for a generational shift in leadership across the region.
Appearing on Channels Television Morning Brief, he questioned the capacity of leaders in their 70s to effectively manage the demands of the presidency, asking whether such individuals can maintain the rigorous schedule required to govern, including early briefings and regular engagement with stakeholders.
Describing himself as the youngest presidential candidate within the ADC, Amaechiemphasisedd the need for Nigeria to consider competence, energy, and broader national factors when selecting its next leader.
While acknowledging that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has the constitutional right to contest the presidency, Amaechi stressed that the race should not be defined solely by regional considerations. He added that other candidates within the emerging political coalition are largely regional figures, suggesting the need for a more nationally appealing candidate.
Amaechi’s remarks come amid ongoing political realignments and early positioning ahead of future presidential elections.
