Youth groups in Nigeria’s South-East have rallied support for Hon. Chimamkpa Ogbonnaya following his emergence within the youth leadership structure of the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the move as a strategic effort to strengthen youth inclusion in the party.

The endorsement, spearheaded by the South East Youths for Progressives (SEY4P), also saw the group commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, for what they described as deliberate steps to reposition the APC’s youth wing and deepen political participation among young people in the region.

In a statement, the group said Ogbonnaya’s emergence reflects a renewed commitment by the party leadership to energise its grassroots base, particularly in the South-East where the APC has historically struggled to gain dominance.

They noted that the ongoing restructuring of the youth wing aligns with President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda, which prioritises youth empowerment, economic inclusion, and broader representation in governance.

According to the group, such initiatives are critical to bridging the political gap between the South-East and the ruling party. The youths further praised Kalu for his role in strengthening the APC’s presence in the region through legislative advocacy and grassroots mobilisation, adding that his leadership has contributed to improving the party’s acceptance among local communities.

Political observers say the development signals a growing push by the APC to consolidate its foothold in the South-East by leveraging youth-driven structures. Analysts also point to early political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, with parties intensifying efforts to expand their support base across key regions.

The endorsement of Ogbonnaya and the commendation of top party figures underscore what many see as a broader strategy by the APC to promote internal cohesion, expand grassroots engagement, and project a more inclusive image in the South-East.