Anambra Enforces 18-35 Age Limit for Youth Groups From 2027

The Anambra State Government has reaffirmed that only persons between 18 and 35 years will be eligible to participate in youth development programmes and to hold positions in youth organisations and leadership structures designated for young people.

The policy will take effect from January 1, 2027, and will be strictly enforced across the state.

The position of the government was contained in a press statement issued by Dr. Nelson Omenugha, Special Adviser to the Governor on Youth Reformation.

According to Omenugha, the measure is to ensure that opportunities created for young people reach their intended beneficiaries, promote fairness and strengthen youth participation.

He said the government wants to create space for emerging leaders to build their leadership capacity.

Omenugha directed all youth organisations, associations and relevant institutions in the state to review their membership, leadership structures and operational guidelines to comply with the age bracket before the deadline.

"All youth organisations, associations, and relevant institutions are directed to review and regularise their membership, leadership structures, and operational guidelines to ensure full compliance by the deadline," he said.

"From January 1, 2027, the Ministry of Youth Development and relevant government agencies will not recognise youth organisations that fail to comply with the stipulated age bracket," he added.

He explained that the directive is in line with the youth reformation agenda of Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, which seeks to build a disciplined, productive, responsible and values-driven generation of young people.

The government said it recognises the importance of mentorship and intergenerational collaboration but insisted that positions reserved for youths must be occupied by persons within the prescribed age limit.

Omenugha stated that the policy is not intended to exclude citizens above 35 years from contributing to youth development.

He said it is designed to protect opportunities for eligible young people while encouraging older and more experienced citizens to provide mentorship, guidance and support.

He urged stakeholders to use the transition period to make necessary adjustments ahead of the January 1, 2027 deadline.

He added that the ultimate goal is to strengthen youth participation, promote accountability and advance the vision of a New Onye Anambra through purposeful youth reformation.