We’re not elitists nor backed by govt — City Boy Movement
The City Boy Movement has denied being an elitist group and backed by the government, insisting that it remains a grassroots-driven platform.
The group, linked to the All Progressives Congress (APC), said in a statement issued on Saturday and posted on X by its national secretariat that the viral video claiming otherwise was misrepresenting its objectives and identity.
“City Boy Movement was founded in 2022 as a grassroots civic and political support platform built on voluntary participation, democratic engagement, and national development. It is not a government-created initiative and has never operated as one,” the statement read.
The group stressed that its membership and support base cut across various segments of society, dismissing suggestions that it represents only a privileged class.
“We are not defined by class, status, or wealth. Our supporters reflect the full spectrum of Nigeria — traders, artisans, students, farmers, professionals, entrepreneurs, and successful business leaders alike,” the statement said.
It argued that economic success should not be interpreted as exclusion or detachment from civic responsibility.
“Prosperity does not invalidate patriotism, and success should not be mischaracterised as exclusion. Civic participation is a right that belongs to every Nigerian, regardless of economic standing,” it added.
The Movement also addressed the meaning of the phrase “City Boy,” widely associated with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stating that the expression symbolises values rather than social hierarchy.
“The phrase ‘City Boy,’ popularly associated with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represents resilience, bold thinking, courage, and transformative leadership. Within our Movement, it signifies a mindset committed to progress, not a social category or class distinction,” the statement noted.
Reaffirming its vision, the organisation said its focus remains on encouraging democratic participation and national cohesion, particularly among young Nigerians.
“Our vision is clear: to mobilise citizens, particularly young Nigerians, toward constructive democratic engagement, enterprise, and national cohesion,” it stated.
The group further emphasised its commitment to issue-based dialogue and unity, warning against narratives that promote division.
“Our mission is focused: to amplify issue-based dialogue, support reform-driven leadership, and foster unity across communities. We reject attempts to frame Nigeria through artificial divisions. Progress is built through collaboration across regions, professions, and social backgrounds,” the statement said.
The City Boy Movement maintained that it would continue to prioritise nation-building and responsible civic engagement.
“City Boy Movement remains steadfast in its commitment to unity, enterprise, responsible democratic participation, and national development. We will continue to focus on substance over spectacle, and nation-building over narrative manipulation,” the statement concluded.
