By Aaior K. Comfort

A group of Nigerian youths has urged political leaders to demonstrate exemplary leadership to mitigate the pervasive anger and hunger in the country. This call to action came during a media chat at the Alumni Building of the University of Ibadan, where they gathered to discuss their anthology, All the Colours of Madness.

The event, led by Mr. Abuah Martins, CEO of Aprilcentaur Network, highlighted the frustration many youths feel due to poor governance and unfulfilled aspirations. “There’s a lot of frustration and anger in the country,” Martins stated, emphasizing the need for political leaders to address these issues directly.

In his remarks, Mr. Folarin Olaniyi, Publisher of Emotion Press, noted that the political landscape in Nigeria often feels restrictive, as the older generation tends to maintain control over the system. “The youths are excelling in technology and other sectors of the economy. That’s why I chose publishing—I believe in the power of education,” he said. Olaniyi underscored that writing can serve as a platform for expressing societal grievances.

Odion-Osigwe Emike, one of the anthology’s co-authors, expressed her passion for the project, explaining, “This conversation resonates with so many people. Our anger stems from various sources—government, lack of jobs, and even familial expectations.”

Emike described this generational anger as pervasive and often unresolved. “When anger is not expressed, it affects not just your life but your community,” she warned, asserting that unaddressed frustration can lead to negative governance and toxic practices.

The discussions during the event highlighted the urgent need for leaders to engage with the youth and implement policies that alleviate their grievances, fostering a more hopeful and constructive future for Nigeria.