“History is not written by those who watch from the balcony; it is written by those who step into the arena.”

At The Bridge Leadership Foundation (TBLF), we believe that the “Office of the Citizen” is the most powerful office in the land, but the “Office of the Leader” is where that power is codified into progress. For years, we have heard the cry for a new breed of Nigerian politician: one who is untainted by the shadows of the past, fueled by the energy of the youth, and anchored in the bedrock of ethics.

Today, we aren’t just making an announcement. We are issuing a Clarion Call. We are officially opening the gates for the 2026 Emerging Political Leaders Fellowship (EPLF). This is your invitation to move beyond the hashtags and the town hall debates. This is your invitation to become the architect of the Nigeria we deserve.

Why EPLF?

Nigeria stands at a unique crossroads in 2026. With shifting economic tides and a digital generation coming of age, the traditional “politics as usual” is no longer sustainable. The EPLF was birthed from a single, bold vision by our founder, H.E. Senator Liyel Imoke: to build a bridge between raw ambition and seasoned competence.

We don’t just teach you how to win an election; we teach you how to govern. We don’t just show you how to give a speech; we show you how to craft a policy that changes a life.

The 2026 Curriculum: A Masterclass in Transformation

The 2026 Fellowship has been reimagined to meet the demands of a modern democracy. Over the course of seven months, our Fellows will navigate an intensive, multi-modal learning experience:

• Module I: The Ethical Foundation. Navigating the moral “gray areas” of Nigerian politics without losing your soul.
• Module II: Data-Driven Governance. Using 2026 technology and analytics to solve infrastructure, healthcare, and education gaps.
• Module III: Campaign Strategy & Grassroots Mobilization. The mechanics of the “ground game”, from fundraising to polling unit management.
• Module IV: Legislative Drafting & Public Policy. Turning a vision into a bill that can survive the floor of the House.

The “Power Room” Mentorship

The hallmark of the EPLF is access. Our Fellows don’t just read textbooks; they sit across the table from the giants.

“In the 2026 cohort, you will be paired with mentors who have walked the corridors of power, former Governors, seasoned Legislators, and International Policy Experts, who will provide the ‘behind-the-scenes’ wisdom that you won’t find on Google.”

Our Fellowship Tracks & Accessibility

We believe that financial status should never be a barrier to leadership. For 2026, we have structured three distinct pathways:

1. Track 1: Scholarship Track (Fully Funded) Highly Competitive and Merit-Based: Reserved for the top 10% of applicants who demonstrate extraordinary potential but lack the financial means. This covers everything from tuition to the Abuja Bootcamp flight.
2. Track 2: Paid Track (Partial Funded): A collaborative model where the Foundation subsidizes 50% of the costs, and the Fellow (or their community/sponsor) covers the rest.
3. Self-Sponsored & Fully Paid Track: For established professionals or those sponsored by organizations committed to civic development.

Who is the “Ideal” 2026 Fellow?

We aren’t looking for “perfect” candidates; we are looking for purposeful ones.

• The Community Catalyst: You’ve already started a movement or an NGO in your local government.
• The Ethical Professional: You’ve excelled in law, medicine, or tech and now want to apply those skills to the public sector.
• The Bold Visionary: You are between 25 and 45 years old, a Nigerian citizen (at home or abroad), and you refuse to accept that “this is just how things are.”

The Road to Selection

The selection process is rigorous, designed to mirror the pressure of public office:

• Stage 1: The Online Application. Your story, your track record, and your “Why.”
• Stage 2: The Aptitude & Integrity Test. A test of logic, policy knowledge, and ethical scenarios.
• Stage 3: The Video Pitch. A 3-minute “Manifesto for the Future.”
• Stage 4: The Virtual Interview. A deep dive with our selection committee.

Deadline for Applications: March 16, 2026.

Take Your Place in History. Nigeria does not lack leaders; it lacks a system to refine them. The EPLF is that system. If you are ready to be refined, if you are ready to be challenged, and if you are ready to lead, the bridge is open.

APPLY HERE: eplf.thebridgeleadership.org/apply

Invest in yourself. Transform your community. Rebuild Nigeria.

The 2025 Emerging Political Leaders Fellowship Bootcamp and Graduation Ceremony in Abuja was a transformative three day event that brought together Nigeria’s brightest young leaders to learn, engage, and demonstrate leadership in action. Designed and hosted by The Bridge Leadership Foundation, the programme created a platform for intensive learning, high level engagement, mentorship, and practical leadership application. It is a space where young Nigerians are not only taught to lead but are challenged to think critically, act ethically, and implement solutions that directly impact their communities and the nation.

The Bootcamp commenced on November 5, 2025, with the arrival of the fellows and the opening workshop. The evening session was led by Dr Adaora Onyechere Sydney Jack, Executive Director of Gender Strategy Advancement International, who facilitated the Fellows Welcome and Interactive Session. Her presentation explored the intersection of strategic leadership, civic responsibility, and the influence of public policy in society. Dr Sydney Jack encouraged the fellows to reflect deeply on their leadership identities, to question assumptions, and to develop practical strategies for transforming their communities. Fellows engaged in discussions, group exercises, and personal reflection exercises that emphasized self awareness, collaboration, and solution oriented thinking. The atmosphere was electric with curiousity, ambition, and determination, as the cohort began to build the shared sense of purpose and vision that would define the Bootcamp. Afterwards, the Founder, Sen. Liyel Imoke CON, took the floor and engaged the fellows in a deeply insightful dialogue. During the interactive session, he posed the reflective question he is known for asking every cohort during the Meet and Greet, “What defines you?”, a challenge designed to push the fellows to examine their identity, purpose, values, and the essence of their leadership journey.

Day two took the fellows into the heart of Nigeria’s legislative institutions for high level engagement. The cohort visited the National Assembly, where they observed a live plenary session and saw firsthand how legislative debates and decision making unfold. Witnessing the complex interactions, procedural nuances, and deliberative processes offered the fellows a concrete understanding of the structures that shape governance. Following the plenary, the fellows were hosted by Rt Hon Benjamin Okezie Kalu, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives. In his address, the Deputy Speaker reflected on the discipline, integrity, and accountability required of public officials, and shared candid lessons from his own journey in public service. He urged the fellows to embrace service oriented leadership, stressing that the quality of a nation’s leadership is determined by the ethics, commitment, and courage of those who choose to lead.

Later that day, the fellows visited the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies, where they submitted their policy briefs developed through their fellowship learning modules. These briefs were not merely academic exercises; they were evidence based proposals aimed at tackling real community challenges. Fellows demonstrated clarity in problem definition, creativity in solution design, and practical thinking in implementation planning. 

The third and final day of the Bootcamp was the highlight of the programme, featuring the Fellows Capstone Project Presentations. Each fellow showcased projects they had been developing and implementing within their communities, tackling issues such as education, civic participation, youth empowerment, rural development, governance, technology integration, and climate awareness. The projects were evaluated by a distinguished panel of reviewers that included Hon Bamidele Salam, Hon Engr Akarachi Etinosa Tosan Amadi, Mr Ose Anenih, Amara Nwankpa, and Debby Magnut. The panel assessed the projects based on problem clarity, innovation, feasibility, social impact, and alignment with leadership principles. Each presentation demonstrated not only intellectual mastery but also the ability to translate theory into practical solutions that could be implemented at scale. Fellows received detailed feedback, mentorship, and guidance from the panel, providing them with invaluable insights into real world leadership challenges.

Following the Capstone Presentations, the Graduation and Conference Ceremony took place, marking the culmination of the fellowship year. The event gathered prominent public leaders, development practitioners, policy experts, and EPLF alumni to celebrate achievement and explore the broader implications of youth leadership in governance. Dr Sam Amadi, Director of the Abuja School of Social and Political Thought, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing that leadership is a discipline rooted in integrity, service, vision, and strategic thought. He reminded fellows that leadership is less about personal ambition and more about the courage to enact meaningful change, hold systems accountable, and inspire others through example.

The graduation featured a high level panel session with Hon Abdussamad Dasuki, Ms Obianuju Ogoko, Mr Oluwatosin Iseniyi, and Mr Ose Anenih. The panel was moderated by EPLF alumnus Daniel Stephen and compered by Faith Onyebujoh of Democracy Radio. Discussions centered on governance, ethical leadership, public service, technology in decision making, and effective civic engagement. The panel encouraged the fellows to use the tools and networks gained through the fellowship to continue shaping public policy, community programs, and national discourse.

A particularly moving highlight of the ceremony was the unveiling of the 2025 Fellows Legacy Project, a Compendium documenting the experiences, insights, and learning outcomes of the cohort throughout the fellowship year. The Compendium was presented to Senator Liyel Imoke, Founder of The Bridge Leadership Foundation, by the 2025 Cohort President, Olajumoke Oluwaseun Olasoji. She also announced a scholarship initiative for secondary school students, demonstrating how leadership impact begins with giving back and investing in future generations.

The ceremony further celebrated exemplary performances across multiple programme milestones. Group 4, the New Nigeria Youth Party, emerged as winners of the 2025 Campaign Video Challenge, impressing the judges with a narrative rich in creativity, originality, and solution oriented storytelling. Their video effectively addressed community issues and offered practical solutions. Team members Mutari Liman, Yasir Ibrahim, Ruth Ngoka, Bright Okuta, and Mubarak Mijinyawa achieved 42 out of 50 in internal scoring and 46 out of 50 in social media grading, reflecting both technical excellence and the ability to inspire civic awareness among audiences.

Special recognition was given to George Ugwuja and Yasir Ibrahim for their outstanding Capstone Project presentations. Olajumoke Oluwaseun Olasoji received the Outstanding Civic Engagement Activity Award for her impactful initiative at Babs Fafunwa Senior Grammar School, Ojodu, Lagos, reaching 70 students and 10 staff members. Her project inspired civic awareness, political participation, and leadership consciousness among young learners.

Ajibola Oladiipo was celebrated as the Overall Best Fellow of the 4th Cohort, achieving perfect attendance in all 34 virtual sessions, consistently top evaluations from June to September, and exceptional contributions to the fellowship learning community. Femi Oladele and Ruth Ngoka were also recognized for their consistency, dedication, and meaningful engagement with their peers, serving as role models of discipline, collaboration, and leadership in practice.

As the ceremony concluded, Senator Liyel Imoke and the programme leadership reiterated the mission of the Emerging Political Leaders Fellowship: to build a generation of competent, ethical, community oriented leaders who are equipped to transform Nigeria’s governance and civic landscape. The 2025 cohort now joins the EPLF Alumni Network, ready to leverage their knowledge, skills, and networks to enact meaningful change, inspire participation, and uphold the values of integrity, accountability, and service in every sphere of influence.

The 2025 fellows depart with renewed focus, clarity of purpose, and a lifelong commitment to public service, community engagement, and nation building. The Fellowship continues to stand as one of Africa’s most robust platforms for cultivating the leaders of tomorrow, ensuring that the ideals of ethical leadership, innovation, and social impact remain at the heart of Nigeria’s future.

Introduction

During the 2025 Emerging Political Leaders Fellowship (EPLF) Fellows Bootcamp, Conference, and Graduation Ceremony, Fellows the Emerging Political Leaders Fellowship gathered for the Fellowship’s closing sessions, featuring inspiring addresses from distinguished speakers. Among the highlights of the event was the Keynote Address delivered by Dr. Sam Amadi, Director, Abuja School of Social ^ Political Thought Centre for Public Policy and Research, whose remarks deeply resonated with the Fellows and other attendees. His address reflected on the essence of leadership, the power of youth engagement, and the responsibility of emerging leaders to drive transformation in governance.

Building Purposeful Leadership

Dr. Amadi began by commending The Bridge Leadership Foundation for nurturing a generation of purpose-driven leaders through the EPLF platform. He emphasized that leadership is not a title but a responsibility, one that demands discipline, empathy, and the courage to serve selflessly.

He reminded the Fellows that every generation must redefine leadership in its own time, and this generation’s task is to lead with wisdom, integrity, and vision.

“Leadership is not about occupying space; it is about creating impact. Every policy you influence, every project you execute, and every person you inspire becomes part of your leadership legacy.”

Ethics, Competence, and Courage

Speaking on the ethics of leadership, Dr. Amadi urged the Fellows to uphold moral values and resist the temptation of cutting corners. He underscored that competence must be matched with courage, the courage to stand for what is right and make decisions that reflect justice and fairness. He added that true leadership is not about longevity in office, but about the quality of transformation achieved while in service.

Youth, Innovation, and Governance

Dr. Amadi emphasized that innovation is central to governance in the modern era. He encouraged Fellows to leverage technology, data, and creativity to design solutions that meet people’s real needs.

“In the age of Artificial Intelligence and global disruption, the true power lies in human intelligence, emotional intelligence, and civic intelligence. The leaders who master these will shape the future.”

He called on young leaders to be bold in using new ideas to tackle governance challenges and to see technology as a tool for accountability and transparency.

The Role of Networks and Collaboration

Highlighting the importance of collaboration, Dr. Amadi urged the Fellows to build strategic alliances across sectors. He noted that partnerships between public institutions, civil society, and the private sector are essential for sustainable development and social change.

He commended The Bridge Leadership Foundation for fostering a network of emerging leaders who continue to support and learn from one another beyond the Fellowship.

Sustainability and Legacy

In closing, Dr. Amadi reminded the Fellows that true leadership is about creating systems that endure beyond one’s time in office. He charged them to build institutions, strengthen trust, and nurture values that future generations can inherit.

“The future belongs to those who are ready to serve beyond self, beyond applause, and beyond ambition. True leadership is measured not by what you take from society, but by what you give back to it.”

Closing Charge

As he concluded his address, Dr. Amadi congratulated the 2025 Cohort for completing the rigorous Fellowship journey. He encouraged them to go forth as ambassadors of transformation — leading with integrity, innovation, and courage.

The audience responded with a standing ovation, inspired by his words and renewed in their commitment to lead change within their communities and across Nigeria.

#Nigeria governance #Sam Amadi #A new Nigeria

Introduction

As part of activities marking the 2025 Emerging Political Leaders Fellowship (EPLF) Residential Bootcamp, Fellows of the programme under The Bridge Leadership Foundation (TBLF) paid a courtesy visit to the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, at the National Assembly, Abuja. The visit provided the Fellows with firsthand exposure to Nigeria’s legislative processes and an opportunity to engage with the Deputy Speaker on the role of young leaders in governance, nation building, and democratic reform.

In his address, the Deputy Speaker commended The Bridge Leadership Foundation for its sustained commitment to nurturing competent, ethical, and visionary leaders. He challenged the Fellows to embrace leadership as a responsibility rooted in service, courage, and integrity. Below are excerpts from his remarks:

Deputy Speaker’s Remarks

[Protocol and Welcome]

It is both an honour and a privilege to welcome you to the People’s House, a place where the aspirations of over 220 million Nigerians converge in debate, deliberation, and decision.

Today, I see before me a gathering of young leaders who represent the conscience, courage, and promise of our nation. You are here because you have chosen leadership not as a privilege but as a responsibility, not as a platform for self, but as a platform for service. That distinction matters more than you may realise.

Reflections on Leadership and Service

Leadership, my friends, is not a ceremonial title. It is the art of service, the practice of wisdom, and the courage to act in the face of uncertainty. It is tested in moments of decision, not in moments of applause. As a lawyer and a parliamentarian, I have come to understand that the power to legislate carries with it an obligation to be measured, principled, and relentless in the pursuit of justice. Understanding the weight of responsibility that comes with leadership, we must now confront the reality before us, one that demands courage, clarity, and the full engagement of Nigeria’s greatest asset, its youth.

The Stakes for Youth and Democracy

Fellows, Nigeria is remarkably young. According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), nearly 70 percent of our population is under 35. Globally, youth number almost 1.8 billion, and in Africa, over 60 percent are under 25.

Yet despite this demographic advantage, youth remain underrepresented in governance. In the 10th National Assembly, fewer than 4 percent of seats are held by Nigerians under 35 (INEC, 2023). Less than 1 percent of elected positions nationwide are occupied by young people (NILDS). This gap is a call to action. Our generation must lead with courage, competence, and integrity because the future cannot wait.

Youth Inclusion: Legislative and Federal Government Initiatives

Since its inauguration, the 10th House of Representatives has prioritised youth inclusion as a central legislative focus. The House has sponsored and advanced key bills aimed at empowering young Nigerians, including proposals to:

• Facilitate easier access to political office for youth by strengthening party nomination processes and reducing structural barriers, building on the Not Too Young To Run Act.
• Enhance youth participation in governance through institutionalised mentorship programmes, internship placements, and inclusion in committee hearings.
• Support skills development and entrepreneurship initiatives, linking legislative oversight to programmes that increase youth economic participation.

At the same time, the Federal Government’s policies are aligning to complement these legislative efforts through the National Youth Investment Fund, National Youth Service enhancements, and targeted empowerment schemes.

Notably, the Federal Government has committed to achieving a 30 percent youth inclusion target in governance. These measures signal a deliberate shift toward integrating young Nigerians into decision making and national development.

The Constitution Review Committee: Reforming for Inclusion

In my capacity as Chairman of the House Committee on Constitution Review, I must remind you that constitutional reform is not a theoretical exercise. It is the architecture of our democracy and the scaffolding of our institutions. Our Committee has developed a compendium of 86 bills across 13 thematic areas, including governance, devolution, legislative oversight, and inclusive representation. This process invites your active participation. Attend the zonal hearings, submit memoranda, advocate for youth voice and women’s leadership, and ensure our laws mirror the nation as we are, not as we were.

Our national reform agenda must advance three imperatives:

1. Representation that mirrors our population demographics.
2. Institutions that function with integrity and transparency.
3. Governance that invites citizen participation rather than excludes it.

That agenda is yours to carry forward.

Youth Leadership and Lessons from Parliamentary Practice

Fellows, constitutional reform provides the structure of governance, but leadership in practice determines the outcomes. True leadership is measured by one’s ability to translate ideas into action, to negotiate across differences without compromising principle, and to ensure that policies achieve tangible results. It is tested in the chamber, in committee rooms, and in every encounter with the citizenry. Emerging leaders must understand that influence is earned, not inherited. Political courage, strategic thinking, and competence define enduring leadership. Commit to lifelong learning. For instance, I recently completed my PhD and continue to undertake courses to sharpen my skills because effective leadership demands continuous growth in knowledge, judgment, and perspective. Your credibility as leaders will be judged not by ambition alone, but by preparation, wisdom, and the impact you create.

The House of Representatives is the People’s House, and my office is open to you. Engage actively with the opportunities before you, participate in dialogues, attend civic forums, contribute to policy discussions, and bring your voices into spaces where decisions are made. Your generation must close the gap between demographic strength and political influence, ensuring that youth perspectives are central, not peripheral, to national development.

Conclusion: A Vision for the Future

Fellows, this is your moment to rise.

You have been brought together by The Bridge Leadership Foundation because they recognise in you the potential to bridge the gap between Nigeria’s youthful energy and meaningful political influence, to inject innovation, accountability, and vision into our democracy.

I commend the Foundation for creating a platform that instils knowledge, ethics, and civic responsibility.

I also salute former Governor Liyel Imoke for his sustained vision, mentorship, and legacy of quiet, effective statesmanship, proof that true leadership extends beyond tenure and is measured by the lasting impact one leaves on people and institutions.

Fellows of the Emerging Political Leaders Fellowship, the responsibility you now inherit is profound. Step forward with integrity, serve with humility, reform with courage, and lead with wisdom.

Your actions today will shape the Nigeria of tomorrow. The future of our democracy rests in your hands. Make it worthy of the trust, hope, and expectations of the Nigerian people.

Thank you, and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

On October 18, 2025, young Nigerians gathered virtually for a high-impact Twitter Space conversation titled “The Cost of Apathy: Why Young People Must Care About Governance.” The session, hosted by Paul Oluwadamilola Owoyemi, a Fellow of the Emerging Political Leaders Fellowship (EPLF), was part of the Foundation’s Civic Engagement Project, an initiative designed to inspire, mobilize, and equip the next generation of Nigerians to transform governance beyond online conversations.

The event brought together a powerful lineup of thought leaders and advocates including Abiola Adesoye, Adewale Sodiq, Jones Feyisike Gbolayori, and Oluwagbenga Ajongbolo, with Ayoola Zainab Adebayo moderating the discussion. Together, they explored the dangers of political apathy, the illusion of online activism, and the urgent need for active participation in nation-building.

Key Outcomes

The conversation successfully mobilized young voices around the urgent need to transition from digital activism to tangible civic participation. Participants were equipped with actionable insights to strengthen their roles in democratic governance.

1. Increased Awareness of the Dangers of Apathy:
The discussion underscored how youth disengagement weakens democracy, reduces accountability, and allows poor leadership to thrive. Many participants acknowledged that political silence is a costly choice that perpetuates governance failure.

2. Digital-to-Real-Life Transition:
Speakers emphasized that hashtags and online outrage must lead to measurable civic impact. Young people were urged to channel their digital influence into community organizing, voter education, and consistent policy advocacy.

3. Strengthened Commitment to Accountability:
The session deepened understanding of how to demand transparency from leaders, track public budgets, and ensure elected officials deliver on promises. Listeners learned practical frameworks for monitoring governance outcomes.

4. Renewed Civic Mobilization:
The Twitter Space sparked momentum for grassroots engagement, inspiring participants to initiate or join accountability networks within their local communities.

Lessons Learnt

Several important lessons emerged from the conversation:

1. Apathy Has a Price:
The greatest threat to democracy is not bad leadership, it is the indifference of good citizens. Youth disengagement allows incompetence and corruption to go unchecked.

2. Real Change Begins Beyond Election Day:
Participants learned that democracy thrives not just at the polls but through continuous civic oversight, budget tracking, and policy dialogue after elections.

3. Social Media Is a Tool, Not the Destination:
While online spaces remain powerful platforms for advocacy, the conversation highlighted that true transformation happens when digital activism translates into community-level participation and leadership.

4. Accountability Is Everyone’s Responsibility:
Governance begins with citizens demanding transparency. Young people must redefine participation as an ongoing responsibility, not a seasonal activity.

Next Steps

Following the robust engagement, participants committed to moving from awareness to sustained civic action. The following next steps emerged:

1. Build Local Civic Networks:
Participants were encouraged to form or join community accountability groups that monitor local governance projects, elections, and policy implementation.

2. Strengthen Collaboration Between Youth Advocates:
The conversation created a foundation for future partnerships among participants and speakers to design civic education campaigns targeting unengaged youth.

3. Institutionalize Civic Education:
There was a strong call to integrate civic literacy into school and university programs, ensuring young Nigerians understand their roles in governance early.

4. Sustained Digital Engagement:
Participants agreed to keep the conversation alive online using official hashtags: #TheCostOfApathy, #CivicEngagement, #YouthCare, and #EmergingLeaders, to continue mobilizing peers toward collective civic responsibility.

Conclusion

The Twitter Space on “The Cost of Apathy” was more than a conversation, it was a rallying cry. It reaffirmed that the future of Nigeria depends on the active participation of its young citizens. As the session host, Paul Owoyemi, concluded, “Action is the antidote to despair.” The message was clear: apathy is no longer an option.

On October 19, 2025, Mubarak Mijinyawa, a Fellow of the Emerging Political Leaders Fellowship (EPLF), convened a transformative civic engagement initiative, the Emerging Political Leaders Conference. The conference brought together aspiring leaders, young politicians, and governance enthusiasts for an engaging conversation on political participation, mentorship, and strategy.

With two dynamic sessions streamed live on Facebook, the conference recorded over 2,600 cumulative views, 235 likes, and 27 comments and shares within 24 hours. The strong online participation demonstrated the growing interest of young Nigerians in conversations about governance and leadership.

Key Outcomes

The conference successfully advanced the objectives of civic awareness, mentorship, and political inclusion among emerging leaders. Over 1,000 participants joined both live and recorded sessions, gaining valuable insights on political participation, strategy, and the responsibilities of emerging leaders. The event created a vibrant platform for open dialogue between young leaders and experienced politicians, fostering an honest exchange of ideas on governance challenges and possible solutions.

One of the major highlights of the conference was the discussion on “Politics Without Bitterness”, which inspired participants to approach political engagement with tolerance, civility, and strategic thinking rather than emotion or rivalry. Participants also learned practical tools on sustaining mentorship, strengthening stakeholder engagement, and contesting elections as minorities or in less popular political parties. By the end of the sessions, many youth participants had renewed their commitment to remain persistent yet strategic in their political journeys, seeking mentorship, coalition building, and continuous learning opportunities to strengthen their leadership pursuits.

Lessons Learnt

Several key insights emerged from the deliberations and participant feedback. The discussions revealed a significant gap between civil society organizations and local communities, emphasizing the need for continuous civic engagement at the grassroots level. It became evident that many aspiring politicians often lack mentorship and strategic guidance, which contributes to their limited success in political contests.

The conference also highlighted that political parties in Nigeria often operate with opaque or influence-driven candidate selection processes, where money, connections, and patronage sometimes outweigh merit and competence. This reality reinforces the need for value-based leadership and structured mentorship to ensure fairer participation. Another critical observation was that many communities remain largely disengaged from the political process, resulting in apathy and weakened accountability structures.

Furthermore, the discussions underscored the importance of structured leadership and political training programs such as the EPLF, SPPGS, PYMR, and LMI. These programs are essential for building a new generation of informed, strategic, and ethical political actors who understand how to navigate complex governance systems and contribute meaningfully to national development.

Next Steps

To sustain the impact of the conference and translate its lessons into concrete progress, Mubarak and his team proposed a series of follow-up actions. They plan to organize quarterly retreats and review sessions where participants can share their progress, experiences, and challenges in applying the knowledge gained during the conference. This will help maintain accountability and continuous learning among emerging leaders.

The conference report will also be shared with civil society organizations and pressure groups in Gombe State to encourage partnership and collaboration on civic and political engagement initiatives. Beyond this, Mubarak emphasized the need for continuous leadership and mentorship programs that equip aspiring politicians with strategic tools for effective participation and governance.

Looking ahead, there are plans to institutionalize the Emerging Political Leaders Conference as a recurring civic engagement platform. By doing so, it will foster sustained dialogue between political stakeholders and emerging leaders, ensuring that the conversation on inclusive governance and youth participation remains alive and active across communities.

As part of the Emerging Political Leaders Fellowship (EPLF) civic engagement requirement, Aliyu Dada, successfully organized a one-day Virtual Leadership Retreat themed “Building Community Champions: A Leadership Retreat.”

The retreat aimed to strengthen the leadership capacity of young changemakers by equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and collaborative mindset necessary to drive sustainable development within their communities. The event brought together 50 participants, comprising 30 young leaders from the Mallam Zaki Fellowship and 20 members of the Katagum Youth League, representing diverse community development interests across Bauchi State.

The session was facilitated by Muhammad Muhammad Gamawa and myself, with a focus on building participants’ understanding of community leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork. The retreat served as a platform for peer learning, mentorship, and cross-network collaboration among young leaders committed to civic transformation.

Objectives of the Retreat

The main objectives of the retreat were to:

• Develop participants’ leadership and civic engagement competencies.
• Foster collaboration and network-building among youth-led organizations.
• Promote the ideals of inclusivity, accountability, and shared responsibility in community leadership.
• Inspire participants to initiate local actions that contribute to good governance and social development.

Programme Overview

The retreat was conducted virtually to ensure accessibility for participants across multiple locations. The sessions featured:

Opening remarks and introductions

• Interactive leadership workshops focused on empathy, teamwork, and value-based leadership
• Breakout group discussions where participants analyzed local governance challenges and proposed practical solutions
• Experience-sharing sessions that allowed participants to draw inspiration from each other’s community service experiences
• Action planning session, where participants outlined personal and group commitments to replicate the training in their local communities
• These structured activities created an environment of collaboration, learning, and motivation, enabling participants to connect leadership theory with real-world application.

Key Outcomes

The retreat produced several significant outcomes:

Enhanced understanding of leadership principles: Participants deepened their appreciation for inclusive and servant leadership as vital tools for community transformation.

Strengthened collaboration: The platform fostered synergy between the Mallam Zaki Fellowship and the Katagum Youth League, leading to plans for future joint projects.

Increased civic awareness: Participants gained practical insights into how local challenges such as unemployment, poor education, and governance gaps can be addressed through citizen-led initiatives.

Network expansion: The event strengthened cross-community connections, helping young leaders access new partnerships and mentorship opportunities.

Overall, the retreat reinforced the belief that collective leadership and shared responsibility are essential to addressing community challenges.

Lessons Learnt

The experience revealed key lessons that will shape future engagements:

Inclusivity is vital: Diverse representation enriches dialogue and ensures that solutions address the needs of all community segments.

Empathy drives connection: Understanding others’ realities strengthens leaders’ capacity to design people-centered interventions.

Collaboration multiplies impact: When young leaders work together, they create broader and more sustainable change.

Leadership is about empowerment: True leadership involves inspiring others to take action and become changemakers in their own right.

Next Steps and Sustainability Plan

To ensure continuity and impact, each of the 50 participants has committed to drip down the knowledge and skills acquired during the retreat to at least two young leaders within their local communities.

This cascade model is expected to reach a minimum of 100 additional young leaders, thereby amplifying the retreat’s impact and fostering a wider network of informed, active, and responsible citizens.

Follow-up activities, including mentorship check-ins and progress monitoring, will be conducted to ensure participants implement their community action plans effectively.

Conclusion

The “Building Community Champions” Virtual Leadership Retreat was a resounding success that strengthened youth leadership capacity, deepened collaboration, and inspired participants to champion positive change within their communities.

The initiative aligns with the Emerging Political Leaders Fellowship’s mission of nurturing principled, visionary, and community-driven leaders who are equipped to transform governance and civic participation across Nigeria.

In fulfillment of his Civic Engagement Activity, Yasir Ibrahim, a Fellow of the Emerging Political Leaders Fellowship (EPLF) 2025 Cohort, through the Young Policy Shapers Program, organized a one day civic education and leadership training for young students of GSSS Batagarawa and GSSS Ajiwa in Katsina State. The program, held on 18th September 2025, brought together 160 participants, comprising 80 males and 80 females, between the ages of 14 and 24, to learn about public policy, governance, and civic responsibility. The sessions, which ran from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., were designed to build young people’s understanding of policy formulation and empower them to take active roles in shaping the future of their communities.

The Young Policy Shapers Program aimed to awaken participants’ interest in public policy and governance while equipping them with the tools and knowledge needed to engage meaningfully in decision making processes. The training adopted an interactive learning approach that included brainstorming exercises, question and answer sessions, role playing, group discussions, and case study analysis. Participants were first given a pretest to assess their existing knowledge of public policy and later a posttest to evaluate the level of improvement after the sessions.

Key Outcomes

The program produced significant outcomes that reflected both learning and empowerment. A total of 160 participants demonstrated a clearer understanding of public policy and their potential role in influencing reforms. They were introduced to core policy skills such as evidence collection, policy formulation, and advocacy, helping them appreciate how their lived experiences can shape effective policy recommendations.

By the end of the training, participants worked in teams to draft policy proposals addressing issues affecting their communities. These exercises encouraged creativity, teamwork, and problem solving, allowing the students to apply their newly acquired knowledge in practical ways. The day’s activities also improved their confidence, communication, and critical thinking abilities, key attributes needed for civic leadership.

Participants’ feedback further highlighted the success of the program. Aisha Sulaiman described it as “more than my expectations” and promised to recommend it to friends and colleagues. Abdulazeez Rabiu noted that “Yasir made the content both easy to absorb and relatable,” while Asiya Tijjani appreciated that “all the sessions were comprehensive, interesting, and inspiring.”

Lessons Learnt

The implementation of the project revealed several valuable lessons. One of the key insights was the need for adequate teaching aids and facilities to enhance learning delivery. The absence of projectors, visual materials, and other instructional tools limited the full impact of the sessions. Yasir also observed that language barriers posed a challenge for some participants, as the sessions were conducted entirely in English.

Another lesson was the importance of accessible training spaces. The lack of a well equipped facility for practical sessions affected how participants engaged with certain topics. Additionally, unpredictable weather conditions, especially the heavy rains experienced in August, led to multiple rescheduling efforts before the event could finally take place. Despite these setbacks, the commitment of the organizing team and the enthusiasm of the participants ensured that the program achieved its intended goals.

These challenges reinforced the need for better planning, resource mobilization, and context specific delivery when working with diverse groups of learners. They also highlighted the power of persistence and adaptability in community driven projects.

Next Steps

Building on the success of the Young Policy Shapers Program, Yasir recommended several steps to sustain and expand the initiative’s impact. He proposed that future editions of the training should be extended into a three week workshop that combines classroom learning with practical activities. This would allow for deeper understanding and hands on application of public policy concepts.

He also suggested that the EPLF Program Office conduct follow up visits to monitor how trainees are applying the knowledge gained and to provide additional guidance. Furthermore, Yasir recommended that future sessions include refreshments to enhance participant engagement and that Fellows be provided with branded materials such as T-shirts, caps, and banners to promote visibility and identity.

To multiply the program’s impact, Yasir proposed the introduction of mini grants that would enable trained participants to replicate the program in their respective schools or communities. He emphasized the importance of equipping trainees with adequate learning tools and resources to support their continued learning and civic engagement efforts.

Acknowledgement

The successful execution of the program was made possible through the collaborative effort of the project team led by Project Director Abdullahi Sulaiman, with support from Managers Ibrahim Abdullahi and Mubarak Yakubu, and Volunteers Lawal Usman, Abubakar Sani, and Hamza Yunusa. Their dedication ensured that the objectives of the Young Policy Shapers Program were fully realized, leaving a lasting impression on all participants.

The Young Policy Shapers Program stands as a powerful demonstration of how civic engagement can inspire the next generation of leaders. Through this initiative, Yasir Ibrahim has not only fulfilled his civic engagement requirement under the EPLFellowship but has also contributed to nurturing a generation of young Nigerians who are better informed, more confident, and ready to participate actively in shaping policies that affect their future.

On September 13, 2025, Omotayo Oluwadunsin Veronica, an Emerging Political Leaders Fellow, convened a powerful virtual dialogue titled “Enhancing Women’s Representation in Political Leadership: How Can Young Women Be Inspired and Equipped to Take on Political Leadership Roles?”

Held via Google Meet, the two hour session gathered an energetic mix of young women, male allies, civic advocates, and thought leaders from across Nigeria and beyond. Together, they engaged in a deeply reflective and solution driven conversation on the persistent barriers limiting women’s participation in politics, from social stereotypes and lack of mentorship to institutional and economic constraints.

More than just a dialogue, the event became a rallying point for collective action. Participants shared lived experiences, exchanged ideas, and explored practical ways to bridge the gap between aspiration and representation. The central question, How can we move from conversation to real change in women’s political participation? became a powerful call to rethink systems, inspire agency, and equip the next generation of women leaders to take their rightful place in decision making spaces.

Key Outcomes

The session was rich with insight and impact. Two expert speakers; Ms. Oluwaseun Kola-Akinola, Coordinator of the Young Women in Politics Forum (YWIPF) Ekiti State Chapter and Founder of Female Network, and Rt. Hon. Babatunde Olusanya, Speaker of the Ekiti Youth Parliament (4th Assembly), shared transformative lessons on women’s political leadership and the power of allyship.

Over 20 participants actively engaged in the conversation, contributing their perspectives during interactive Q&A sessions. The dialogue was not only informative but also action-driven, leading to the creation of a mentorship connection between a young woman participant and one of the speakers, an early sign of lasting impact.

The session also inspired a shift in mindset. Participants explored real-life stories of resilience and leadership, discussed how to overcome self-doubt, and identified ways to navigate systemic barriers. The dialogue underscored that male allyship, solidarity, and mentorship are not optional, they are essential ingredients for progress.

By the end of the session, participants left with practical tools for building confidence, engaging in policy discussions, and envisioning a future where women lead boldly and collaboratively.

Lessons Learnt

The session revealed several truths about the ongoing struggle for women’s political empowerment:

Role models inspire action: Seeing women in leadership motivates young women to believe they can lead too.

Civic education is lacking: Many young women remain unaware of political processes and opportunities for engagement.

Cultural and social barriers persist: Gender norms and societal expectations continue to discourage political ambition among women.

Limited access to networks and resources: Many young women find it difficult to enter political spaces or sustain their interest in governance.

Underused youth platforms: Few youth organizations prioritize female political participation, leaving many young women unrepresented.

Yet, amidst these challenges, one message rang clear: change begins when young women are equipped, encouraged, and connected.

Next Steps

To sustain the momentum from this powerful conversation, Omotayo Oluwadunsin Veronica and her team developed a forward-looking roadmap designed to translate dialogue into tangible action.

The plan focuses on building capacity, strengthening networks, and institutionalizing gender inclusion in political spaces. It begins with the development of a targeted action plan that designs leadership training and mentorship initiatives in collaboration with schools, NGOs, and political parties.

Next, the team will establish mentorship and role model programs that connect aspiring young women with accomplished female leaders through structured mentorship networks, ensuring that guidance and inspiration remain continuous.

Recognizing the importance of knowledge, they will strengthen civic education by integrating gender-sensitive leadership and civic studies in schools, complemented by workshops, debates, and webinars that promote political awareness and participation.

To deepen grassroots engagement, youth-led advocacy groups and women’s leadership clubs will be created within educational and community spaces, fostering peer advocacy and collective action.

The team also plans to engage policymakers and institutions to push for gender-inclusive policies, leadership quotas, and support systems that make political spaces more welcoming for women.

At the same time, they will leverage digital platforms to drive awareness campaigns, create virtual networking spaces, and sustain online engagement around women’s political empowerment.

Finally, Omotayo’s team will monitor and evaluate progress by setting measurable goals, tracking outcomes, and refining strategies to ensure that the initiative remains effective, inclusive, and impactful over time.

A Movement of Voices and Vision

What began as an evening conversation became a spark for a broader movement, a reminder that women’s inclusion in politics is not just about representation, but about reimagining leadership itself.

Through this civic engagement, Omotayo Oluwadunsin Veronica demonstrated that empowering young women to lead begins with creating safe, intentional spaces for dialogue, mentorship, and action. By building confidence, community, and capacity, she set in motion a ripple effect that will continue to inspire young women to rise, lead, and shape the future of Nigeria’s political landscape.

The message was clear: when women lead, society moves forward.