By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The City Boy Movement, a support platform linked to Nigeria’s ruling party, has rejected claims that it operates as an elitist, government-backed group. In a statement issued on Saturday by its National Secretariat and shared on X, the group responded to a viral video questioning its identity and objectives. The Movement said it was founded in 2022 as a grassroots initiative to promote democratic participation and national development. It insisted that critics misrepresented its mission and structure.
City Boy Movement Rejects Elitist Label
The City Boy Movement said it remains a voluntary civic and political platform. It stressed that it was never created by the government.
According to the statement, the group runs independently and relies on grassroots participation. Leaders explained that members come from different backgrounds across the country.
“We are not defined by class, status, or wealth,” the statement said. “Our supporters reflect the full spectrum of Nigeria.”
The Movement listed traders, artisans, students, farmers, professionals, entrepreneurs, and business leaders among its supporters. Therefore, it dismissed claims that it represents only a privileged class.
Meaning of ‘City Boy’ and Its Association with Bola Ahmed Tinubu
The group also clarified the meaning of the phrase “City Boy,” widely associated with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
It said the phrase represents resilience, bold thinking, courage, and transformative leadership. However, it does not suggest social hierarchy or class distinction.
Within the Movement, “City Boy” reflects a mindset committed to national progress. As a result, the group rejected narratives framing it as exclusive.
Focus on Youth Engagement and Democratic Participation
The Movement reaffirmed its commitment to mobilising young Nigerians. It said its vision centres on constructive democratic engagement and enterprise.
“Our vision is clear: to mobilise citizens, particularly young Nigerians, toward constructive democratic engagement, enterprise, and national cohesion,” the statement noted.
In addition, the group emphasised responsible civic participation. It urged Nigerians to prioritise unity and national development.
Commitment to Issue-Based Dialogue and National Unity
The organisation said it promotes issue-based dialogue and reform-driven leadership. It warned against narratives that promote division across regions or professions.
“Our mission is focused: to amplify issue-based dialogue, support reform-driven leadership, and foster unity across communities,” the statement added.
Furthermore, the group argued that economic success does not invalidate patriotism. It maintained that civic participation remains a right for all Nigerians, regardless of wealth.
Grassroots Platform, Not Government Initiative
The Movement said it was founded in 2022 as a grassroots civic support platform. It insisted that voluntary participation drives its activities.
It also noted that critics circulated misleading content on social media. However, it pledged to remain focused on substance over spectacle.
“City Boy Movement remains steadfast in its commitment to unity, enterprise, responsible democratic participation, and national development,” the statement concluded.
The group reaffirmed its resolve to prioritise nation-building and responsible civic engagement across Nigeria.
