Are Nigerian youths truly being included in decision-making, or is it just political lip service?
Nigeria is a nation dominated by youth over 60% of the population is under 35. Yet, despite their numbers, young people remain significantly underrepresented in governance. From local councils to national assemblies, leadership positions are largely held by older politicians, leaving youth voices largely unheard in key decision-making spaces.
Youth inclusion in governance is not just about representation; it is about empowering young people to shape policies that directly affect their lives, education, employment, technology, and social development. This blog explores the current state of youth inclusion in Nigeria, highlights the challenges, and examines pathways to meaningful participation.
The government has announced renewed efforts to increase youth participation in governance in response to growing advocacy from civil society and youth-led organizations. At a national civic engagement forum, officials acknowledged that although young people make up the majority of the population, their presence in elected and appointed offices is limited.
Individuals under 35 make up more than half of Nigeria’s population but hold a smaller percentage of leadership positions in parliament and local councils. Measures being considered include: Establishing youth advisory councils, Leadership training programs, Policy reforms to lower barriers for young candidates
The Minister of Youth Affairs emphasized; “Young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are leaders of today. Their voices must be reflected in policies that shape education, employment, and innovation.”
Youth representatives welcomed the announcements but stressed implementation over promises, calling for lower nomination fees, mentorship within political parties, and institutional reforms that enable genuine participation.
Young Nigerians are finding innovative ways to engage in governance, even when official spaces remain limited. At just 29 years old, community organizer Daniel, has spent five years mobilizing youth through town hall meetings and advocacy campaigns. “Young people have ideas, solutions, and the energy to transform communities. But many doors remain closed to us,” he says.
Across Nigeria, youth-led initiatives from civic education campaigns to digital activism are gaining momentum. However, barriers persist; Financial constraints for running campaigns; Limited political networks and mentorship opportunities; Societal perceptions that leadership is reserved for older generations.
Experts emphasize that youth inclusion is not merely about numbers but meaningful participation. Engaged young leaders ensure that policies on employment, technology, climate change, and education are better informed and more innovative.
Excluding young people from leadership is not just unfair it weakens democracy. With the majority of the population under 35, policies on education, jobs, innovation, and climate change must reflect youth perspectives.
Critics often argue that young people lack experience, but global examples show that youth can lead successfully in institutions, businesses, and communities. True inclusion goes beyond symbolic appointments it requires structural reforms, mentorship, and empowerment, ensuring youth have both voice and influence.
Youth inclusion in governance is no longer optional, it is necessary. Nigerian youths are ready to lead, but the system must provide them with resources, opportunities, and authority. By removing barriers and fostering meaningful participation, Nigeria can harness the energy, creativity, and innovation of its young population, creating a stronger, more inclusive democracy
