Youths At The Heart Of Nigeria’s Democratic Future, Says Minister

The minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, has emphasised the crucial role of Nigeria’s youth in steering the country’s democratic future.

Speaking at the 2024 Democracy Convention yesterday in Abuja, Olawande highlighted the importance of young leaders in shaping a prosperous Nigeria through inclusion, dialogue, and shared responsibility.

“The youth of our nation are the backbone of change,” he said, lauding the contributions of young Nigerians in community transformation and the reinforcement of democratic values. “This convention is a testament to your leadership, resilience, and unwavering commitment to a better Nigeria.”

Olawande urged attendees to embrace empathy and dialogue, emphasising that democracy is a dynamic system evolving through people’s aspirations. “We are one nation with a shared destiny, united by a desire for a peaceful, prosperous, and just Nigeria,” he said.

He encouraged young leaders to engage openly, challenge ideas constructively, and offer solutions for a stronger nation.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to youth engagement, he pointed to programs like the Nigerian Youth Parliament, which empowers young Nigerians to play active roles in governance.

“With one youth representative from each of the 109 senatorial districts, the Youth Parliament enables our young people to learn and contribute to the political process. We just held the valedictory session of the fifth Parliament and are refining the program to further enhance youth participation,” he said.

Olawande reiterated the government’s readiness, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, to support youth initiatives that will strengthen Nigeria.

“Together, let us work towards a Nigeria that celebrates diversity, upholds justice, and fosters an environment where every citizen has the opportunity to succeed,” he said.

In his remarks, Andrew Mamedu, the country director of ActionAid Nigeria, stressed that the gathering comes at a pivotal moment. Nigeria currently ranks 123rd out of 167 countries on the 2023 Global Democracy Index, underscoring significant challenges related to democratic freedoms, civic engagement, and government accountability.

“Every member of this remarkable alliance deserves recognition for their vision and dedication,” he stated, highlighting how this convening reflects resilience and a shared commitment to address these democratic challenges.

“It is inspiring to witness the courage and determination of young leaders stepping up to shape a new future,” he added. Since the alliance’s formation in 2023, ActionAid has embraced the Democracy Convening as a cornerstone of its mission for social justice and democratic values.

With the rollout of its new country strategy in August 2024, he reaffirmed its support for initiatives that align with these values, emphasizing the vital role social movements play in advancing equality, justice, and prosperity.

He noted that the convening arrives as Nigeria grapples with record-low voter turnout—only 29 per cent in the 2023 general elections—and continues to face challenges with political representation and transparency.

“This gathering offers a timely intervention to address barriers to civic participation, especially for youth and women, creating a political landscape where every voice is heard and valued,” he said.

Acknowledging the collective efforts required for the Democracy Convening’s ambitious goals, Mamedu expressed confidence in Nigeria’s youth as drivers of transformative change.

“The resolve and commitment of these young leaders empower us all, reinforcing our shared pursuit of a just and equitable Nigeria,” he noted, pledging ongoing support.

The event celebrated youth platforms such as Activista, Girls Get Equal (GGE), Open Mind Young Voices, the Nigerian Youth Parliament, and the National Youth Council of Nigeria for their dedication to democracy and justice.

Mamedu further expressed gratitude to supporting organisations—including Plan International, Oxfam Nigeria, Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES), the Swedish and German Embassies, FCDO, the Ministry of Youth Development, Amnesty International, and CITAD—whose steadfast backing is essential to the alliance’s success.