By Aderonke Ojo
The Initiative for Better and Brighter Nigeria (IBBN) has called for inclusive governance and increased youth participation in Nigeria’s political process, stressing that politics must reflect the interests of all citizens, including persons with disabilities.
The FCT Coordinator of IBBN, Bishop Dr. Emmanuel Afolabi, made this call during a grassroots football match organised by the group in the Federal Capital Territory on Thursday.
Speaking on the organisation’s mission, Bishop Afolabi said IBBN was established to ensure that Nigeria’s political class recognises the value and relevance of every citizen.
“The aim of IBBN is to make sure that the political class understands that every Nigerian matters. Politics is not for the elders alone. It is for the young, the old, and everyone in between,” he said.
He emphasised that IBBN promotes equal treatment for all citizens, regardless of physical ability, noting that the organisation actively includes and supports persons with disabilities.
“Both the able-bodied and the disabled are part of us. We have persons with disabilities within IBBN, and we have empowered many of them. We also visit Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). That is part of what we stand for,” he added.
The football match, which attracted mostly youths from the host community, was described as a deliberate strategy to engage young people and awaken their political consciousness.
Addressing the youths, Bishop Afolabi said Nigerian youths must no longer remain passive in matters of governance.
“For some time now, the youth in Nigeria have been sleeping. They have left governance in the hands of the elderly. If we don’t bring this awareness forward, who will the older generation hand over leadership to?” he asked.
According to him, IBBN is committed to bridging the generational gap in leadership by preparing young Nigerians to take up civic and political responsibilities.
“That is why we are bringing the youth up — to close the gap between the elderly and the younger generation and ensure continuity in leadership and good governance,” he said.
IBBN has continued to deploy community-based engagements, including sports and civic education, to promote awareness, inclusion, and accountability as part of its broader campaign for a better and brighter Nigeria.
The novelty match saw Dobi united defeated Paiko united 3-2.