REPORT
State of Youth Leadership in Nigeria 2025
Powered by AIESEC Nigeria
This report uncovers how young Nigerians are leading, what’s holding them back, and where their potential could transform society.
What's stopping young leaders in Nigeria?
Nigeria’s youth are ambitious, skilled, and active in leadership. Yet systemic barriers—funding gaps, stereotypes, and lack of mentorship—keep slowing them down. This report unpacks the problem and what to do about it.
What’s inside
Survey of 120 young Nigerians, mostly AIESEC members and alumni
Data on leadership roles, skills, and perceptions
Top barriers holding youth leaders back
Sectors where youth leadership is most visible
Policy, organizational, and media implications
Key figures and findings
The numbers reveal the state of youth leadership in Nigeria:
53.78% currently hold leadership positions
76.42% gained public speaking skills through AIESEC
80% cite lack of funding/resources as the top barrier
65% believe young Nigerians aren’t given enough space to lead
Only 17.5% rate youth leaders as “very effective”
Bottom line: The talent is ready. The system isn’t.
Who should read this?
Policy makers shaping youth inclusion strategies
Youth organizations building leadership pipelines
Private sector leaders seeking innovative young talent
Media professionals shaping narratives about leadership
Researchers studying youth, politics, and society
If you influence, support, or study youth leadership, this is for you.
This report is for you if you’ve ever asked:
Why do young Nigerians struggle to access leadership roles?
What skills do youth leaders actually gain from organizations?
How do stereotypes and funding gaps block progress?
Which sectors show the most promise for youth leadership?
What can policymakers, institutions, and media do differently?