President Bola Tinubu has emphasized the need to properly harness the potential of youths in Nigeria and across the African continent.

Speaking on Thursday during a panel session on the sidelines of the 13th Africa CEO Forum in Rwanda, the Nigerian leader stressed that as a politician, if he doesn’t manage the potential of the youths, and get them ready to take advantage of available opportunities, they can vote him out.

Tinubu described Nigerian youths as dynamic, restless and not ready to accept any excuses.

He stressed the need for the government to provide an enabling environment for growth, noting that politicians must remain accountable to the people.

In his words, “We have a very dynamic youthful population, restless and not ready to accept any excuses. I am a politician, if I don’t prepare them for that (opportunities), they will vote me out.”

Meanwhile, President Tinubu has urged aspirants and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to conduct themselves peacefully as the party begins its nationwide primary elections ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a statement he personally signed on Thursday, Tinubu described the commencement of the APC primaries as a historic moment for the ruling party, noting that the exercise marks the party’s fourth election cycle since its formation.

The President said the APC was founded on the principles of progressive politics, consensus democracy, personal sacrifice and devotion to party unity.

“We founded the All Progressives Congress on the firm principles of progressive politics, consensus democracy, and personal devotion and sacrifice. This principle of selflessness and devotion has seen us go through each election cycle and come out firmer together,” he stated.

Tinubu acknowledged ongoing efforts by party leaders to produce consensus candidates in line with the Electoral Act and the APC constitution.

According to him, the consensus arrangement remains a commendable option capable of reducing rancour and internal division within the party.

“I note the impressive progress made in this regard and encourage fellow party members to make the most of this window to ensure a seamless process and a more unified party,” the President said.

He, however, stressed that where consensus fails, aspirants should approach the primaries with sportsmanship and avoid conduct capable of threatening party unity.