Youths: The Livewire of Nigerian Politics

 

Nigeria as the giant of Africa is experiencing political instability and one-sided policymaking body without including the youth. At the global level, there seems to be an understanding that youth are significant dividends of the global population, such that they need to be included in every decision making process. They are also recognized as key agents of socio-economic and political movers of society. Despite this fact, on the ground, youth are marginalized and excluded from the political and important decision making processes. They are also recognized as key agents of socio-economic and political movers of society. Despite this fact, on the ground, youth are marginalized and excluded from the political and important decision making processes. This is truer in Africa than elsewhere in the world. Most politicians in Africa are failing to recognize this basic concern of the continent. The Nigerian case is a typical example where most leaders are between 60 and 80 years of age.

A few years ago, it was almost impossible to talk up the chances of a youthful president in Nigeria. But now, the clamour for a young leader is gaining momentum with the signing of a bill that reduces the age limit to seek political office in the country. More young people have indicated an interest to contest the presidency after a reduction of the age limit to 35. But now, the clamour for a young leader is gaining momentum with the signing of a bill that reduces the age limit to seek political office in the country. The limit was lowered from age 40 to 35, giving younger people an opportunity to vie for the coveted position. The original version of the bill proposed reducing the presidential candidacy age to 30. It also reduced age requirements for the Senate and state governor to 30 from 35.

Today’s youth need real opportunities to participate in political processes and contribute to practical solutions that advance development. When given an opportunity to organize, voice their opinions, and play a meaningful role in political decision making, young people consistently demonstrate their willingness and ability to foster positive, lasting change. They also become more likely to demand and defend democracy and gain a greater sense of belonging. It is essential that young people are engaged in formal political processes and have a say in formulating today’s and tomorrow’s politics. Inclusive political participation is not only a fundamental political and democratic right but also is crucial to building stable and peaceful societies and developing policies that respond to the specific needs of younger generations.

     For young people to be adequately represented in political institutions, processes, and decision-making, and in particular in elections, they must know their rights and be given the necessary knowledge and capacity to participate in a meaningful way at all levels. When there are obstacles to participating in formal, institutionalized political processes, young people can rapidly feel disempowered. Many tend to believe that their voices are not going to be heard or that they will not be taken seriously even if they are heard. The problem becomes circular as politicians may lose interest in responding to the aspirations of young people if they cannot win their votes. This in turn leads to young people being increasingly excluded from taking part in decision-making, or in debates about key socio-economic and political issues, despite their sensitivity to the demands for social equity and justice, environmental protection, and cultural diversity. 

 What are the benefits of youth involvement in Nigerian politics?

  Civic engagement

The involvement of youth in politics leads to civic engagement which is broader than political engagement because it can include service to the community through involvement in health, education and charity work. Political engagement is a more targeted aspect of civic engagement and can be expressed through voting, participating in political demonstrations, and signing petitions for specific issues. 

Better Citizens

Young people who participate politically in their community from early on are more likely to become engaged citizens and voters. So, in order to have a better “young” citizenship, politics is one of the best tools.

Break the status quo

In countries of dictatorship, the younger generation’s fresh ideas and new leadership can help to overcome authoritarian practices. Protests led by youth leaders can force autocratic leaders to step down from power, allowing these youths to become part of formal decision-making.

Youth for Youth

The youth face many issues in the world, but these issues go unheard. Since the youth would better understand other young people, the best way to improve this newer generation would be through politics, which is a tool used to take action for development. 

However, for political systems to be representative, all parts of society must be included. When young people are disenfranchised or disengaged from political processes, a significant portion of the population has little or no voice or influence in decisions that affect group members' lives. A key consequence is the undermining of political systems’ representativeness.

 Written by:

OKONKWO CHIDIMMA BENITA
Code No.: OS/20A/1786
Course: Mass Communication
Institution: University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN), Enugu State
State of Origin: Imo