APC Youth Wing Rolls Out Internship Programme for Young Nigerians

The National Youth Wing of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has rolled out a new internship programme designed to equip young Nigerians with practical experience in leadership, governance, public policy, and digital innovation. The programme, which was unveiled in Abuja, is being championed by the APC National Youth Leader, Hon. Dr. Dayo Israel, as part of the party’s broader agenda to deepen youth inclusion in national development. Speaking at the launch, Dr. Israel described the initiative as a bold step toward grooming the next generation of leaders through hands-on training, mentorship, and exposure to real governance structures. According to him, the programme is not limited to political engagement but will also offer capacity-building opportunities that cut across various sectors. “This initiative is about giving our young people the platform to learn, grow, and lead. We are investing in their future by providing them with the tools, knowledge, and mentorship that will prepare them for leadership responsibilities in governance and beyond,” Dr. Israel said. The internship scheme, as outlined by the APC youth wing, will feature a blend of classroom masterclasses, online learning modules, and work placements in party structures, policy research units, and allied organisations. Participants will also benefit from mentorship by senior party leaders and professionals in different fields. Targeted at recent NYSC graduates and undergraduates in their final year, the programme aims to create a pipeline of skilled young Nigerians who can transition smoothly into leadership roles. Interested candidates have been encouraged to apply through the official APC youth wing platforms, while the selection process will be based on merit and demonstrated interest. Organisers added that further details on intake size, stipends, and duration will be made public in due course. Beyond the political space, the programme is expected to provide training in areas such as digital communications, civic engagement, entrepreneurship, and innovation. Officials highlighted that the youth wing had previously piloted similar initiatives, including digital bootcamps and entrepreneurship competitions, which will now be expanded under the new scheme. Political observers and youth development advocates have applauded the move, noting that it has the potential to address the gaps in skills and leadership training among Nigerian youths. However, they also urged the APC to ensure that the programme is transparent, well-monitored, and sustainable, warning against turning it into a mere political gesture. “This is a welcome initiative, but its real test will be in how it is implemented. Young Nigerians need opportunities that are impactful, practical, and long-term,” a youth policy analyst remarked. For the APC, the internship programme aligns with its vision of building a more inclusive political culture that prioritises youth participation. While placements will primarily be within APC structures, the training content, according to the youth wing, will be designed to benefit participants beyond party politics. Dr. Israel reiterated the call for Nigerian youths to take advantage of the opportunity, describing it as a chance to build skills that will shape their future. “We are creating a platform where passion meets purpose, and where young Nigerians can be prepared for the challenges of tomorrow,” he said. The first batch of interns is expected to commence placements in Abuja and selected states later this year.