Aliyu Bunza: Transformative shift or a continuation of Nigeria’s political status quo
In a political landscape often criticized for sidelining young voices, Hon. Aliyu Haliru Bunza’s candidacy for the All Progressives Congress (APC) Zonal Youth Leader position in Nigeria’s North West Zone for 2025 is stirring debate. Is Bunza, a former Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) in Kebbi, the visionary leader Nigerian youth are rallying behind, or is his ambition a lightning rod for controversy in a party grappling with internal tensions? As the APC prepares for its 2025 leadership elections, Bunza’s bid is capturing attention, with young Nigerians across Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Jigawa, Sokoto, and Zamfara seeing him as a beacon of change.
A Track Record of Impact in Kebbi
Bunza’s tenure as NYCN Chairman in Kebbi State showcased his ability to galvanize youth and drive community progress. He spearheaded initiatives that empowered young people through skill acquisition programs, educational outreach, and economic empowerment projects, earning him widespread respect. His leadership transformed the NYCN into a vibrant platform, inspiring APC youth across the North West to engage in politics. Bunza’s efforts in Kebbi, from organizing workshops to fostering dialogue between youth and local leaders, mirror the grassroots activism of global youth icons like Malala Yousafzai, who championed education in Pakistan against immense odds. Like Malala, Bunza has shown a knack for mobilizing communities around shared goals, making him a relatable figure for Nigerian youth hungry for representation.
Standing Among Global Youth Leaders
Bunza’s vision aligns with the transformative qualities of global youth leaders. Like Joshua Wong, who led Hong Kong’s pro-democracy movement, Bunza inspires political participation in a region where youth feel marginalized. Wong’s ability to rally young people against entrenched power mirrors Bunza’s efforts to empower North West youth within the APC’s complex dynamics. Bunza’s focus on practical solutions—job creation, skill development, and political engagement—echoes the pragmatic activism of Vanessa Nakate, the Ugandan climate activist who amplifies African voices globally. By addressing local issues with a regional vision, Bunza is carving a path that resonates with the aspirations of Nigerian youth, much like these global figures.
Why Nigerian Youth Are Rallying Behind Bunza
The North West’s youth see Bunza as a leader who understands their struggles. His campaign promises to lower barriers to political participation, drawing inspiration from the high costs of APC nomination forms that have historically excluded young candidates. Bunza advocates for affordable access to party roles, a stance that aligns with the 2023 election’s youth surge, where parties like the African Democratic Congress outshone APC in youth engagement. His call for inclusivity and economic empowerment has sparked hope among young Nigerians, who view him as a catalyst for a political shift ahead of 2027.
As the APC navigates its 2025 elections, Bunza’s candidacy stands out as a bold statement. His ability to inspire, much like global youth leaders, and his proven track record in Kebbi make him a figure Nigerian youth are rallying behind. Whether his bid sparks a revolution or fuels debate, Bunza is undeniably a name to watch in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
Join TechPolitics for the latest on APC’s 2025 elections and Nigeria’s youth movement.