Youth in Politics: Shaping Nigeria’s Future
Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa, has a young and vibrant population, with over 60% of its citizens under the age of 25. This demographic makeup presents a unique opportunity for the nation to harness the energy, innovation, and progressive ideals of its youth. In recent years, young Nigerians have become increasingly engaged in politics and activism, signaling a shift in the country’s political landscape. This engagement is essential for Nigeria’s future, as it brings fresh perspectives, drives accountability, and champions critical reforms. Youth involvement in Nigerian politics is not only about representing the young; it’s about shaping a future built on equity, opportunity, and sustainable development.
A New Wave of Political Activism
The surge in youth involvement in Nigerian politics can be traced to recent socio-political movements that spotlighted young people as powerful advocates for change. One of the most prominent examples is the #EndSARS movement, which started as a protest against police brutality but evolved into a broader call for accountability and systemic reforms. Led largely by young Nigerians, the #EndSARS movement captured national and international attention, proving that the youth are not only aware of political issues but are also ready to lead.
Beyond protests, young Nigerians are increasingly active in civic education, voter registration drives, and political dialogue on social media. Platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook have become essential for raising awareness, organizing collective action, and holding leaders accountable. Social media has become a powerful tool for young people to circumvent traditional power structures, create their own narratives, and push for transparency. This new wave of activism showcases the potential of Nigerian youth as agents of change and emphasizes their role in creating a more inclusive political system.
The “Not Too Young to Run” Act
A significant milestone in youth political participation was the passing of the “Not Too Young to Run” bill in 2018, which lowered the age requirements for various elective offices. This law reduced the age for running for the office of president from 40 to 35, the House of Representatives from 30 to 25, and state assemblies from 30 to 25. The act was a landmark achievement for Nigerian youth, as it legally recognized their right to seek political office and participate in shaping the nation’s future.
The “Not Too Young to Run” movement was a grassroots campaign led by youth advocates who saw the age barriers as a systemic block to meaningful political representation. Since the act’s passage, young candidates have contested various elections across the country, although many challenges remain. Despite the act, young candidates often struggle with limited access to campaign funding, internal party politics, and a lack of political mentorship. Nonetheless, the act represents a crucial step forward in dismantling barriers and creating pathways for youth to enter the political arena.
Challenges Facing Youth in Nigerian Politics
While the youth have made significant strides in Nigerian politics, several obstacles continue to hinder their full participation. One of the most prominent challenges is the entrenched political structure that favors established politicians. Political parties in Nigeria are often dominated by older generations who wield influence over decision-making processes and resources. As a result, young people may find it challenging to gain party endorsements or support, particularly if their political ideologies or agendas challenge the status quo.
Financial constraints also pose a significant barrier. Running a political campaign in Nigeria is an expensive endeavor, and young candidates often lack the financial backing that older politicians have amassed over the years. Campaign finance regulations are minimal, which means that candidates with greater resources can often outspend their opponents. This lack of funding disproportionately affects young candidates, especially those from less privileged backgrounds, and limits their chances of winning.
Furthermore, the absence of political mentorship and networks is a hurdle. Many young people lack the experience and guidance needed to navigate Nigeria’s complex political landscape. Without seasoned mentors to help them understand political dynamics, negotiate alliances, and formulate effective strategies, young politicians may struggle to achieve their goals. To address this gap, experienced leaders, civil society organizations, and political mentors should invest in developing the next generation of leaders through training programs, mentorship schemes, and partnerships that build political acumen among Nigerian youth.
Youth Empowerment Through Education and Civic Engagement
Education plays a crucial role in preparing young Nigerians for meaningful political participation. Civic education, in particular, is essential for helping young people understand the political process, their rights, and the importance of their voices in governance.
Unfortunately, civic education is often underemphasized in Nigeria’s educational system, leaving many young people unaware of their role in politics and how they can influence change.
By incorporating civic education into school curricula, Nigerian schools can foster a generation of politically conscious youth who understand the importance of their participation in governance. In addition, youth organizations, NGOs, and media platforms can offer workshops, seminars, and forums to enhance political literacy and civic engagement. Social media campaigns can also play a role in educating young Nigerians about voting, government accountability, and the importance of participation in elections.
The Role of Youth in Shaping Nigeria’s Future
Young people bring fresh ideas, perspectives, and a unique sense of urgency to Nigeria’s politics. Their involvement can drive much-needed reforms in critical areas like economic development, education, healthcare, and environmental sustainability. The youth are typically more open to embracing technology, innovation, and new approaches to governance, which can transform how policies are developed and implemented.
Moreover, young Nigerians are increasingly advocating for transparency, anti-corruption measures, and accountable governance. In a country where corruption remains a pervasive issue, the youth’s insistence on accountability is crucial. Young leaders, unlike their predecessors, are often less tied to established interests, which can allow them to champion policies that serve the public good rather than personal or political gain. This commitment to integrity is instrumental in tackling Nigeria’s deep-seated issues and can help foster trust in government institutions.
The involvement of youth in politics also has a unifying effect. Nigeria is a diverse nation with multiple ethnicities, religions, and languages. Young people, who are more likely to have grown up in multicultural environments and connected through the internet, often prioritize issues that resonate across these divides. This generational shift could help reduce ethnic and religious tensions, promoting unity and fostering a more cohesive society.
Looking Forward: Supporting Youth Leadership in Nigeria
Supporting youth in Nigerian politics requires a multi-faceted approach that includes policy reforms, mentorship, and financial backing. Political parties should actively recruit and support young candidates, offering them meaningful roles within party structures and promoting policies that resonate with the younger demographic. Public and private institutions can offer funding initiatives, scholarships, and grants to support young leaders’ campaigns and governance projects, addressing one of the major barriers to political participation.
Civil society organizations, international partners, and the media also play a critical role in amplifying young voices, providing platforms for youth advocacy, and holding political leaders accountable to the youth agenda. In addition, programs that connect young Nigerians with global peers can expose them to new political models and inspire innovative solutions tailored to Nigeria’s unique challenges.
Youth participation in Nigerian politics is essential for the country’s growth, unity, and progress. As Nigeria continues to grapple with issues of governance, economic challenges, and social inequality, the voices and perspectives of young people are more important than ever. Engaging the youth in politics means creating a foundation for sustainable development, transparency, and accountability. By supporting and empowering young Nigerians, Nigeria can build a brighter future, one where the political system reflects the aspirations and needs of its diverse, dynamic, and youthful population. The time for youth leadership in Nigeria is now, and their impact on the nation’s future promises to be transformative.
