ADC Nafiu Gombe age limit policy bars candidates above 55, as party pushes youth leadership and generational political change
Factional National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Nafiu Bala Gombe, has announced a sweeping ADC Nafiu Gombe age limit policy that will bar individuals above 55 years from contesting political positions under his leadership.
Also read: Joe Igbokwe Sparks Fury with Fierce ADC Criticism
Nafiu Bala Gombe made the announcement during an interview with BBC Hausa, where he outlined plans aimed at repositioning the party through generational renewal and stronger youth participation in politics.
According to Gombe, the African Democratic Congress must embrace fresh leadership if Nigeria is to experience meaningful political transformation.
He said the party belongs to all Nigerians but must now prioritise young aspirants.
Gombe stated that the new directive would open political space for younger Nigerians to take leadership roles and contribute actively to decision-making processes.
“The African Democratic Congress is a party that belongs to all Nigerians. What we are doing now is to ensure the party moves forward properly,” he said.
“We have decided that we will give the youths a real chance. The time has come for young people to take the lead in politics.”
He added that anyone above 55 years would no longer be eligible to contest for positions within the party under his leadership.
“If you are over 55 years old, you are not going to contest for positions in the ADC under our leadership,” Gombe said.
He emphasised that the reform is intended to inject new ideas, energy, and innovation into Nigeria’s political space, describing youth inclusion as essential to the country’s future.
“We want to bring in fresh blood, new ideas, and energy from the youth. Nigeria’s future depends on the young generation,” he said.
Gombe also argued that previous political structures had not delivered expected progress, stressing the need for a bold shift towards younger leadership.
“The old ways have not worked well for the country. We need to open the door wide for youths to participate fully as candidates, leaders, and decision-makers,” he added.
Also read: Joe Igbokwe Sparks Fury with Fierce ADC Criticism
The announcement has sparked conversations around political inclusion, leadership renewal, and the role of age in governance.
