Young leaders from across Nigeria have called for more opportunities to participate in the country’s democratic processes.
At a convening organised by LEAP Africa, with support from the Ford Foundation, discussants acknowledged Nigeria’s democratic progress since 1999 but highlighted persistent issues like electoral irregularities, political violence, insecurity, corruption, and rising authoritarianism.
These problems erode public trust and leave youth disillusioned.
Youth leader and activist Fauzudeen Mahmoud, a member of the Imaginative Futures Group, emphasized that although youth make up 70% of Nigeria’s population, they face limited political participation opportunities, economic marginalization, and social exclusion.
“The solution to creating the Nigeria we want is by electing competent people who will create inclusive, responsive, and resilient institutions,” he said.
Hamzat Lawal, Executive Director of CODE, stressed the importance of data and information in creating change. He advised youth to leverage accurate data and sharpen their technological skills to impact the country’s democratic processes.
Simi Olusola, Executive Director of Aspilos Foundation, urged youth to be bold and seize every opportunity to participate in political and democratic processes.
“As youth, we must change the misconception that we are young and inexperienced. We must put in the work and effort required when given a seat at the table,” she said.
Iyin Aboyeji, CEO of Future Africa, highlighted the need for economic empowerment to enable youth to fund their democratic interests.
“Usually, the focus of democratic discussions is the political effect on socio-economic activities. Today, I would like to speak on the effect of socio-economic activities on political processes,” he said.
He cited the #ENDSARS movement as an example of youth leveraging their economic power to drive democratic change.
Darren Walker, President of the Ford Foundation, emphasised that youth development and leadership are central to Nigeria’s future and sustainable democracy.
Dr. Jamilla Ibrahim, Minister of Youth Development, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to creating more opportunities for youth and including their voices in democratic processes, promoting good governance throughout the country.
Latest Stories
-
GPL 2024/25: GoldStars aim to end two-game winless run against Bechem United
2 hours -
Abola Traditional Council, Ga State announce passing of Paramount Queenmother, Naa Okaitsoe III
3 hours -
Emotional vigil climaxes 3-day anti-galamsey protest as demand to #FreeTheCitizens intensifies
3 hours -
Nduom accuses political figures of deliberately collapsing GN Bank
4 hours -
Global initiative launches October 6 in Kenya to combat 70k maternal deaths
4 hours -
2024/25 Ghana League: Struggling Nsoatreman host bottom club Legon Cities
4 hours -
NDC has lost campaign on economy; all they’re talking about is galamsey – Finance Minister
4 hours -
WHO approves first mpox test for quick diagnosis
4 hours -
Claims GN Bank illegally transferred money from Ghana to the US untrue – Nduom
4 hours -
Maison Yusif wins ‘Perfume Manufacturing Company of the Year’ at Ghana Industries and Manufacturing Awards
4 hours -
2024/24 GPL match report: Heart of Lions hold Medeama in Tarkwa
5 hours -
The Artificial Limitation of Choices: A Call for Innovation, Design, and Standards in Ghana’s Economy
6 hours -
I will reform the constitution and fight corruption – Alan Kyerematen
8 hours -
Magnus RexDanquah supports renting out stadia practice for non-sport income
8 hours -
I will fix broken economy, create jobs for youth – Alan Kyerematen
9 hours