Hon. Suleiman Abubakar Magaji has called for greater emphasis on infrastructure, economic opportunities and community development in discussions involving young Nigerians ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Magaji said youth participation in public affairs should be encouraged through constructive dialogue about projects and policies that directly affect people’s livelihoods.
He made the remarks while speaking with journalists at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Lambata–Bida–Mokwa–Makera–Kontagora Federal Highway in Bida, Niger State.
The Federal Government project, which Magaji described as an investment of approximately ₦1.5 trillion, involves the reconstruction and dualisation of a 376-kilometre highway corridor.
According to the project details presented at the event, the road will feature reinforced concrete pavement designed to improve durability along the important transportation route.
Magaji commended President Bola Tinubu for the initiative, expressing optimism that the highway would strengthen commercial activities and improve transportation across communities in Niger State.
He identified agricultural distribution, market accessibility and business development as areas that could benefit from improved road connectivity.
Speaking about political participation, Magaji argued that development projects provide practical subjects for engaging young people in conversations about governance.
“As a youth mobiliser, it becomes easier to engage young people when they can see development initiatives that address real needs in their communities,” he said.
He maintained that discussions ahead of the 2027 elections should prioritise credible information, community concerns and opportunities for meaningful participation.
Magaji attended the ceremony alongside Hon. Manaseh Salawu, Niger State Youth Leader of the City Boy Movement, who expressed his commitment to the movement and support for Magaji’s leadership.
During the event, Magaji also interacted with the Niger State chairman of the All Progressives Congress, the party’s state youth leader and other youth representatives.
He described the engagements as opportunities to exchange ideas, strengthen communication and discuss approaches to involving young people in public affairs.
The youth mobiliser further acknowledged Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago and Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris Malagi for their involvement in development-related activities within the state.
While welcoming the highway project, Magaji emphasised that its anticipated economic benefits would depend on effective implementation.
He therefore urged those responsible for the construction to ensure timely delivery and adherence to appropriate quality standards.
Magaji reiterated that his engagement with young Nigerians would continue to centre on dialogue, grassroots concerns and informed democratic participation.
He maintained that infrastructure development should be assessed not merely by the scale of investment but also by its practical impact on transportation, businesses and the everyday lives of residents.
