By Zainab Yusuf Sultan.
Nigeria, with its youthful population, stands at a critical juncture where the active involvement of young people can redefine the nation’s political landscape. With over 60% of the population under the age of 35, the youth represent not just the future, but a significant part of the present.
Their energy, innovation, and resilience are crucial in pushing for a political system that is more accountable, inclusive, and progressive.
Historically, Nigerian youth have played key roles in political movements from the nationalist struggles that led to independence, to student-led protests against military rule.
However, in recent decades, political participation among youth has been limited due to systemic barriers such as unemployment, political violence, lack of representation, and a disillusionment with the political class.
Yet, recent movements like #EndSARS demonstrated that Nigerian youth are no longer content with being passive observers. The protest showed their ability to organize, mobilize, and demand change using digital tools and grassroots strategies.
It was a reminder that young Nigerians possess both the numbers and the capacity to influence national direction.
To shape Nigeria’s political future meaningfully, youth must move from protest to participation. This includes:
Voter education and registration: Encouraging peer-to-peer education to promote political awareness and participation in elections.
Running for office: Leveraging the “Not Too Young To Run” law to contest for political positions at local, state, and national levels.
Policy advocacy: Engaging in issue-based advocacy, policy formulation, and lobbying to influence governance beyond elections.
Digital activism: Using technology and social media to raise awareness, monitor government activities, and hold leaders accountable.
Despite their potential, young Nigerians face obstacles such as political marginalization, vote-buying, limited access to campaign financing, and insecurity. To overcome these, there must be Institutional support for youth-led initiatives.
Electoral reforms is to promote transparency and inclusion. Civic education to foster political consciousness from an early age.
The future of Nigeria’s democracy lies in the hands of its youth. Their involvement is not optional it is essential.
With deliberate efforts to organize, educate, and participate constructively, Nigerian youth can transform the political system into one that reflects their aspirations for justice, equity, and sustainable development.
