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In recent years, Nigerian youths have increasingly asserted their presence and voice in the country’s political landscape. This rise is driven by a growing realization that their active involvement is crucial in shaping the future of Nigeria. With more than 60% of the country’s population under the age of 25, the youth represent not only a demographic majority but also a powerful force capable of bringing about much-needed change in governance, social justice, and economic growth.
However, despite the progress made, significant challenges remain, and the path toward full political inclusion is filled with obstacles. Yet, Nigerian youths are beginning to break the barriers and push for more meaningful participation in politics.
The Importance of Youth Participation in Politics
Youth participation in politics is vital for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures that the voices and aspirations of the younger generation are represented in decision-making processes. Nigerian youths face specific challenges, such as unemployment, underemployment, education deficiencies, and social exclusion, which are not always adequately addressed by older politicians.
Having youths in political positions can help to bring these issues to the forefront, leading to policies that better reflect the realities of the majority of Nigerians.
Secondly, youth participation contributes to the innovation and renewal of the political process. Younger politicians are often more in tune with modern technologies, global trends, and progressive ideas.
Their presence in politics can lead to the introduction of fresh perspectives, innovative policies, and the modernization of government systems.
Finally, youth engagement in politics helps to foster accountability and transparency. As more young people become politically active, they challenge the old political order, which has been marked by corruption, nepotism, and inefficiency. Nigerian youths, who have grown up in a digital era, are leveraging social media, online platforms, and grassroots movements to demand transparency, monitor political activities, and hold politicians accountable.
The #NotTooYoungToRun Movement: A Milestone
One of the most significant victories for Nigerian youths in politics was the successful passage of the #NotTooYoungToRun bill in 2018. This landmark legislation, which reduced the age requirements for political office, was a response to the growing frustration among young Nigerians who felt marginalized in the political arena.
The bill reduced the age limit for the presidency from 40 to 35 years, for the Senate from 35 to 30 years, and for the House of Representatives from 30 to 25 years.
The #NotTooYoungToRun movement mobilized youths across the country, galvanizing them to participate in the political process. It was a demonstration of the power of organized youth movements and the influence that collective action can have on national policies. For the first time in Nigeria’s history, young people had an official avenue to contest for political office without the age barrier holding them back.
However, while the passing of the bill was a significant step forward, it was only the beginning. The structural barriers preventing young Nigerians from entering politics remain formidable. High nomination fees, expensive campaign costs, political godfatherism, and limited access to resources continue to prevent many young Nigerians from running for office. But despite these challenges, the #NotTooYoungToRun movement reignited hope and ambition among the youth, marking the start of a new era of political participation.
The Role of Social Media in Youth Political Participation
Social media has played a pivotal role in increasing youth participation in Nigerian politics. Platforms like Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp have given Nigerian youths the ability to organize, communicate, and share information on a scale previously unimaginable. Through these platforms, young people can challenge political narratives, hold politicians accountable, and build grassroots support for their causes.
The #EndSARS movement is a clear example of how social media can be a powerful tool for political activism. In October 2020, young Nigerians took to the streets and social media to protest police brutality, specifically the actions of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), a unit notorious for extrajudicial killings, harassment, and abuse of citizens. What began as a protest against police brutality quickly evolved into a broader demand for better governance, transparency, and an end to systemic corruption.
During the #EndSARS protests, social media was used to coordinate protests, raise funds, share information about police activity, and spread the movement’s message worldwide. The protests drew global attention, with the hashtag #EndSARS trending internationally and celebrities, world leaders, and human rights organizations voicing their support. Though the government eventually disbanded SARS, the protests left an indelible mark on Nigerian politics, proving that Nigerian youths are not only aware of the issues affecting them but are also willing to fight for change.
Youth Representation in Politics: Recent Gains
The efforts to increase youth participation in Nigerian politics have begun to yield results. In the 2019 general elections, several young candidates emerged, with some achieving remarkable success. For instance, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu Jr., the Governor of Ondo State, appointed young individuals to key government positions, recognizing their potential to bring fresh ideas and drive progressive change.
In states like Kwara and Kogi, young politicians such as Seyi Makinde and Yahaya Bello have shown that youth representation is not only possible but can also lead to effective governance. Both governors are among the youngest state leaders in Nigeria and have been noted for their efforts to modernize governance and prioritize youth empowerment.
However, despite these gains, the number of young people in elected positions remains disproportionately low when compared to their population size. This disparity underscores the need for sustained efforts to break down the structural barriers that prevent greater youth participation in politics.
Barriers to Youth Political Participation
While youth participation in Nigerian politics is on the rise, many obstacles continue to impede their full involvement. One of the most significant barriers is the high cost of running for political office. In Nigeria, the nomination forms for political parties can cost millions of naira, and campaign expenses are exorbitant. Most young Nigerians, already struggling with unemployment and underemployment, simply cannot afford to finance a political campaign.
Political godfatherism is another challenge. Established political figures, often referred to as “godfathers,” wield significant power and influence in determining who gets party nominations and funding. Young politicians without the backing of these godfathers often find it difficult to gain traction within political parties, let alone win elections.
Furthermore, the political climate in Nigeria remains hostile for many young candidates. Incumbent politicians are often reluctant to relinquish power, using their vast resources and influence to maintain their positions. Electoral violence, vote-buying, and manipulation of election results are common challenges that deter young people from actively participating in the political process.
The Path Forward: What Nigerian Youths Must Do
For Nigerian youths to take their rightful place in politics, sustained efforts must be made to address the barriers that hinder their participation. Political education is crucial. Many young Nigerians remain unaware of their rights and the processes involved in politics. Grassroots movements, civil society organizations, and media platforms must prioritize educating youths on political engagement, voter rights, and leadership skills.
Additionally, Nigerian youths must continue to leverage the power of social media and other digital platforms to advocate for change, raise awareness, and mobilize support for their causes. Social media has already proven to be a game-changer in Nigerian politics, and its potential for creating more opportunities for youth engagement remains vast.
Finally, the private sector, civil society, and international organizations can play a role in reducing the financial barriers to youth participation by offering funding, training, and mentorship programs that help young politicians navigate the political landscape.
The future of Nigeria rests in the hands of its youth. With a population dominated by young people, it is crucial that they be given a greater role in shaping the country’s governance and policies. While significant strides have been made, the journey is far from over. Nigerian youths must continue to fight for their place in politics, break down the barriers that prevent their participation, and push for a political system that is inclusive, transparent, and representative of the people it serves. By doing so, they will help to build a better Nigeria—one that reflects the aspirations and dreams of its young and vibrant population.
