Baskadia

BY ETTAH EMMANUEL O.

Rt. Hon. Aliyu Idris Zakari serves as the Speaker of the 6th Session of the Nigerian Youth Parliament (NYP), inaugurated on February 5, 2025. Representing the Katsina Central Senatorial District, he was elected to this leadership position during the Parliament's inaugural session.

Prior to his election as Speaker, Hon. Idris outlined a comprehensive agenda aimed at enhancing the Parliament's functionality and promoting youth engagement in governance. His key initiatives include:

Regular Parliamentary Sessions: He emphasized the importance of uninterrupted sittings and pledged to collaborate with sub-national governments to ensure that sessions occur consistently and effectively.

Legislative Training Programs: Hon. Idris proposed the establishment of structured internship programs in partnership with the National Assembly. This initiative aims to provide NYP members with hands-on legislative experience by placing them with relevant Standing Committees, thereby deepening their understanding of parliamentary procedures and governance.

Capacity-Building Partnerships: He plans to forge collaborations with organizations specializing in legislative training and mentorship. These partnerships are designed to offer NYP members additional opportunities to refine their legislative skills and learn from seasoned professionals in the field.

Strengthening the Advisory Role of NYP: Recognizing the Parliament's dual function as an advisory body and a leadership training institute, Hon. Idris is committed to ensuring that the NYP's recommendations and policy contributions are acknowledged and acted upon by relevant stakeholders.

His leadership has been met with commendations from various organizations. The Renewed Hope Youth Alliance (RHYA), for instance, lauded his election, expressing confidence in his ability to advance youth-focused policies and urging him to prioritize unity and development in legislative activities.

Hon. Idris's vision for the Nigerian Youth Parliament centers on creating a functional and impactful institution that serves as a credible training ground for future leaders, empowering young Nigerians to contribute meaningfully to national progress.

For a visual overview of the inauguration of the 6th Session of the Nigerian Youth Parliament, you may find the following video informative: