The Anambra State Government has announced plans to strictly enforce the 18–35 age limit for youth development programmes, organisations and leadership positions reserved for young people from January 1, 2027.
The policy is aimed at ensuring that youth-focused opportunities reach eligible beneficiaries, promote fairness and create room for emerging leaders to develop their leadership skills.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Youth Reformation, Dr Nelson Omenugha, disclosed this in a press statement, directing youth organisations, associations and relevant institutions to review their membership, leadership structures and operational guidelines ahead of the deadline.
Omenugha warned that youth organisations that fail to comply with the stipulated age bracket would no longer be recognised by the Ministry of Youth Development and relevant government agencies from January 1, 2027.
According to him, the directive aligns with the youth reformation agenda of Governor Charles Soludo’s administration, which seeks to promote a disciplined, productive, responsible and values-driven generation.
He clarified that the policy was not designed to prevent citizens above 35 from contributing to youth development but to protect opportunities specifically reserved for eligible young people.
The government, he added, recognises the importance of mentorship and intergenerational collaboration, encouraging older citizens to provide guidance and support to younger leaders.
Omenugha urged stakeholders to use the transition period to make the necessary adjustments before the enforcement date.
He said the initiative was intended to strengthen youth participation, promote accountability and advance the state government’s vision of a “New Onye Anambra” through youth reformation.
