The year 2024 proved to be a pivotal moment in the advancement of electoral democracy across Africa, with 17 countries successfully organizing and conducting national elections, most of which delivered results in a free and fair contest despite opposing predictions. It was a year that highlighted the innate capacity of Africans to facilitate peaceful transitions of power through popular, free, fair, inclusive, and credible electoral processes. This was evident in Ghana, where the opposition, led by former President John Dramani Mahama, secured the presidency, unseating the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP); in Botswana, where the opposition party ended the Botswana Democratic Party’s (BDP) 58-year rule; in South Africa, where the African National Congress (ANC) lost its parliamentary majority for the first time, necessitating the move to seek coalition partners to form a government; and in other parts of the continent where elections were held. 

According to the Ibrahim Index of African Governance, more than 180 million citizens were eligible to participate in the 2024 elections held across 17 countries in the African region. Although over 40% of this number were unable to vote for various reasons, the growing voter-eligible population predominantly composed of youth and the willingness expressed by citizens to engage in the electoral process remain a shining source of tangible hope for Africa’s electoral democracy. The successes achieved and the outcomes of the 2024 elections across the continent highlighted a progressive elevation of democratic ideals, reinforcing my belief that civic engagement and democratic dialogue are not merely political processes but essential lifelines and institutional pathways for sustaining electoral democracy in Africa and beyond.

*Elections: The New Voice for Young People in Africa*

In his “Give Us the Ballot” speech in May 1957, Martin Luther King Jr. said, “So long as I do not firmly and irrevocably possess the right to vote, I do not possess myself. I cannot make up my mind, it is made up for me. I cannot live as a democratic citizen, observing the laws I have helped to enact. I can only submit to the edict of others.” His words, spoken more than three score years ago, resonate deeply with the political reality of African youth, one they have endured, now understand, and continue to grapple with and fight for.

Lessons from the past year demonstrate that young Africans are taking their political destinies into their own hands by owning their politics and its processes. With over 40% of the total voters recorded across the 17 countries where elections were held being under 35 years old, it is fair to say that African youth are taking intentional political action, this time through the ballot. The youth have proven that elections are more than periodic events to choose leaders; they are a testament to the power of the people representing hope, a chance to reset, and an opportunity to redirect the course of governance toward progress for the benefit of the next generation.

The 2024 elections provided a platform for marginalized voices to be heard, for young people to take ownership of their destinies, and for the dreams of over 380 million citizens to find expression. Were the youth able to take advantage of this platform and the opportunities that 2024 provided? Absolutely! The outcomes of the elections held across the continent clearly reflect a new paradigm: a dispensation where leaders can be elected and held accountable, and citizens can demand governance that prioritizes their needs over personal or political interests. This progress was only possible because the youth were actively involved in demanding and working toward elections that were free, fair, and credible, as well as voting for candidates who aligned with their political and economic aspirations.

*Democracy: The Unfolding Institution and Opportunities that Lie Ahead*

Democracy is not just about majority rule; it is about creating systems that prioritize justice, fairness, and opportunities for all. As Mahatma Gandhi aptly puts it, “Democracy gives the weak the same chance as the strong.” It empowers citizens to become active participants in decision-making, shaping policies that reflect their realities and ambitions. It ensures that leaders are not mere rulers but servants of the people, bound by laws and principles that uphold the dignity and rights of every citizen while fostering opportunities for sustainable development.

I believe that true democracy is the antidote to decades of corruption, inequality, and bad governance in Africa. It offers young people a fair chance to challenge the status quo and demand transparency, accountability, and good governance. Africa’s youth population is one of the largest in the world, presenting an unparalleled opportunity for the youth to correct the wrongs of the past and write Africa’s democratic story on a clean canvas. A canvas intentionally designed to accommodate the opinions and aspirations of countrymen and women, irrespective of religion, ethnicity, culture, or disabilities. It is an opportunity to decisively tackle voter apathy, electoral violence, and weak institutions that threaten democracy’s promise for Africa.

This is why we must focus on empowering young citizens through civic education, ensuring that elections are popular and transparent, and building institutions capable of withstanding the pressures of bad actors. As history demonstrates, political revolutions and democratic transformations are often led by young people. Africa’s youth are her greatest resource, a resource that must be harnessed with skill, intellect, and grace to build sustainable systems that preserve and promote good governance in a progressive democracy.

Admittedly, democracy has its challenges; to deny that would be akin to denying the inherent imperfection of politics. The noisiness, exhaustive campaigns, tedious legislative procedures, political maneuvering, gerrymandering, and the often unequal representation of minority groups remain pressing issues. However, while these challenges exist, democracy, in its authenticity, offers an opportunity for remediation. Yes, democracy is noisy, but its noisy nature fosters constructive dialogue, a dialogue capable of addressing all internally generated issues effectively.

Democracy is not a Western concept far from it. It is a universal principle rooted in the idea that every human being deserves dignity, freedom, and a voice. This principle was generously exemplified through the republican and collaborative structures of governance in pre colonial Igbo and other settlements across Africa. As history affirms, ancient monarchies in Africa, though without elections, practiced different variations of indirect democratic leadership.

Democracy, like every fundamental aspect of humanity, has evolved over time, shaped by innovations and internal regulations that determine each society’s democratic trajectory. To keep up with modern-day democracy and the challenges it poses, African youth must rise above apathy and embrace the power of active citizenship in a modern democracy. We must demand systems that prioritize people over politics and governance that serve rather than rules.

We must collaborate with local stakeholders to make our elections more affordable and ensure the voting process is easier and more credible through the use of technology. African youth must believe in their democracy not as a foreign import, but as a local system that has evolved and work diligently to preserve it. We must be visibly involved in efforts to improve our elections and build the capacity needed to address prevalent issues.

In this dispensation, elections and democracy in Africa should not merely be about politicking; they should be about creating a legacy. They should aim to give the next generation a continent they can be proud of, one that upholds justice, equity, and the boundless potential of its vibrant youth.

As Nelson Mandela said, “The right of a person to vote freely in democratic elections, to express him or herself without hindrance, to gather and associate as one wishes, to move freely in one’s land these are precious freedoms that lift the human spirit and give expression to our God-given rights.”

It is through elections that we acknowledge our responsibility and pursue our aspirations with hope. Through democracy, we express that hope and bring our aspirations to life.

Daberechi Kingsley Ekejiuba is a Democracy and Good Governance Advocate; 

Advocate of Free, Fair, Inclusive, Violence-free and Credible Elections in Nigeria and across Africa. He is an Alumnus of the Emerging Political Leaders Fellowship 2024

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) remains a deeply entrenched practice in Nigeria, with devastating health implications and a blatant violation of women’s sexual and reproductive rights. Despite global and local efforts to eradicate this harmful tradition, the generational continuation of FGM persists, with recent studies revealing a 40% continuation rate among mutilated women who have daughters. This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need for sustained advocacy, education, and policy interventions to break the cycle of this harmful course.

As a dedicated lawyer and young politician in Nigeria, I have consistently championed the cause of women’s rights and the elimination of social and economic barriers that hinder their progress and my commitment to ending FGM and other harmful practices against women in Africa is unwavering. As an ardent social researcher, I have come to find out that Female genital mutilation is not just a health issue but a social convention deeply rooted in cultural norms and beliefs.  

The persistence of FGM in Nigeria can be attributed to several factors, including the influence of social norms and the personal experiences of women who have undergone the practice. Many women who have experienced FGM may not perceive it as humiliating, especially if it was performed by trained medical personnel. In some conservative communities, mothers even justify the practice by claiming it helped them remain virgins before marriage, thereby promoting marital fidelity and premarital fertility. These beliefs, though deeply flawed, highlight the complex social dynamics that perpetuate FGM.  

However, the physical, psychological, and emotional toll of FGM on women and girls cannot be overstated. The practice has no health benefits and is associated with severe complications, including chronic pain, infections, childbirth complications, and psychological trauma. It is a violation of human rights and a barrier to gender equality.  

The responsibility of addressing FGM is multifaceted. Here are some possible steps to addressing the committee:  

1. Education and Awareness Campaigns: Empowering communities with accurate information about the dangers of FGM and its violation of women’s rights is crucial. By engaging community leaders, religious institutions, and local organizations, we can challenge the social norms that sustain this practice.  

2. Legal Reforms and Enforcement: Strengthening existing laws against FGM and ensuring their enforcement is essential. Legal frameworks must be complemented by grassroots advocacy to ensure that laws are not just on paper but are effectively implemented.  

3. Support for Survivors: Providing medical, psychological, and economic support to FGM survivors is critical. This includes access to healthcare services, counseling, and economic empowerment programmes to help survivors rebuild their lives.  

4. Engaging Men and Boys: Ending FGM requires the involvement of all members of society, including men and boys. By educating them about the harms of FGM and encouraging them to become allies in the fight against it, we can foster a more inclusive movement for change.  

5. ⁠Whistleblowing: The idea of see something, say something should be encouraged and drafted into our laws. This is to afford persons who report to the relevant agencies, the right protection against discrimination such as mob action.

My vision as a young woman in politics is a Nigeria and indeed, an Africa where women and girls are free from all forms of violence and discrimination. I believe that the wellbeing of young women is integral to the progress of any society. By addressing FGM and other harmful practices, we can create a future where every girl has the opportunity to thrive, free from fear and pain.  

The fight against FGM is not just a women’s issue; it is a societal issue that demands collective action. Together, we can break the cycle of generational continuation and ensure that no girl has to endure the physical and emotional scars of FGM. 

Juliet Isi Ikhayere Asekomeh’s commitment to this cause is a beacon of hope, and her leadership serves as a reminder that change is possible when we stand united for justice and equality. Let us join hands to end FGM in Nigeria and across Africa, reaffirming our commitment to the rights, dignity, and wellbeing of every woman and girl.

“Nigeria: The Need for a Social Contract” is more than a title; it’s a call to action—and a vital one at that.

At the 2024 Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Conference, Mrs. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala delivered a thought-provoking keynote address. She shared an intriguing observation from her visit to Peru, a country that, despite experiencing six presidential changes within seven years, has maintained a stable economy and robust GDP. This paradox led her to ask Peru’s leaders how they achieved economic stability amidst political instability. Their answer was simple yet profound: a social contract.

This concept raises an essential question for Nigeria: what exactly is a social contract, and why does it matter?

A social contract is an implicit agreement among members of a society to cooperate and adhere to shared rules and norms. It is a voluntary pact that governs how individuals interact with one another and with their institutions.

The philosopher Thomas Hobbes famously argued that, without a social contract, life would be “solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short.” Hobbes believed such an agreement could create a more equal and just society—a perspective I wholeheartedly embrace as an Emerging Political Leaders Fellow.

For a nation like Nigeria, the need for a social contract is not just theoretical; it is a practical imperative. To build a thriving and equitable society, we must examine the core elements of a social contract:

Key Elements of a Social Contract:

• Mutual Protection: A collective commitment to safeguard each other’s interests.
• Cooperation: A unified effort to ensure mutual safety, security, and progress.
• Shared Values and Norms: A clear purpose, mission, and vision understood and upheld by all.
• Rule of Law: Governance based on laws that are clear, publicized, and equally applicable to everyone. These laws must protect individual rights, freedoms, and dignity, and they must be enacted and enforced impartially.
• Accountability: Leaders and institutions must be answerable to the people and the law.

Implications of a Social Contract:

A well-defined social contract has far-reaching benefits:

• Legitimacy of Authority: Prevents the abuse of power and ensures that leadership is respected.
• Protection of Individual Rights and Freedoms: Promotes justice and fairness for all.
• Social Justice: Safeguards human rights and ensures equity.
• Collective Responsibility: Encourages economic growth, stability, and security.

A social contract is more than a theoretical framework; it is the bedrock of a functional society. It shapes our understanding of governance, community, and individual relationships.

By embracing the principles of a social contract, Nigerians can redefine their responsibilities to one another and to the nation. This is a call to action—a challenge to collectively decide what our social contract should entail and to uphold its terms, no matter the circumstances.

The future of Nigeria depends on this shared commitment. Let us rise to the occasion.

In fulfilling a key requirement of the Emerging Political Leaders Fellowship (EPLF), Samson Dairus took a significant step in his civic engagement journey by hosting a 30-minute radio chat titled “Nigerian Youths and the Challenge of Leadership” on Amana 98.1 FM. The session, held on October 25, 2024 with over 500,000 active listeners on Air, and 20 participants calling during the call-in session, was aimed at encouraging dialogue on the role of Nigerian youths in leadership.

Objective of the Activity:

The main goal was to engage Nigerian youth in an open conversation about the challenges and opportunities that come with leadership roles. The discussion sought to inspire young people to actively participate in leadership development, fostering resilience and a commitment to community leadership.

Key Outcomes:

The radio chat heightened awareness among Nigerian youths about the importance of leadership, sparking interest in local leadership initiatives. Many listeners expressed a renewed desire to engage in community leadership roles, with notable interest in programs that foster youth involvement. Listener feedback revealed a strong interest in further discussions on leadership.

Summary of Achievements and Key Highlights:

• Audience Engagement: Over 20 calls and text messages were received during the show, with participants asking questions and contributing their views on youth leadership.

• Youth Interest: Many participants showed a keen interest in local leadership opportunities, with the conversation fueling interest in leadership development programmes.

• Listener Impact: The radio station committed to hosting more programs geared towards youth leadership, signifying a broader impact beyond the event.

Lessons Learnt:

• There is a notable enthusiasm for leadership among Nigerian youth, but many struggle to find channels for effective engagement.
• The presence of relatable role models was identified as a critical factor in inspiring young people to pursue leadership roles.
• Youths from rural areas highlighted barriers such as geographic and digital limitations, which hinder their access to leadership opportunities.

Unintended Outcomes:

Amana 98.1 FM pledged to increase its programming focused on youth participation in leadership, showing the potential for longer-term impact.

Way Forward / Recommendations:

• Frequency: Regular discussions like this one are crucial for maintaining and growing youth interest in leadership topics.
• Partnerships: Collaborate with youth organizations to create follow-up sessions, workshops, or leadership forums to sustain the momentum.
• Resources: Provide additional materials and mentorship opportunities to listeners interested in joining leadership programmes.

Follow-up / Next Steps:

A follow-up radio chat is being planned to dive deeper into the specific questions raised by listeners, offering actionable steps for youth who aspire to take on leadership roles.

Core Objectives

The primary goals of the programme were to foster critical thinking, encourage civic engagement, promote political participation, develop leadership skills, and cultivate a sense of patriotism among students. These objectives aimed to empower the young participants to become more active citizens and leaders in their communities.

Key Outcomes

The debate proved to be highly impactful, building the confidence of the students and revealing hidden talents. Many shy students, who had previously never debated, overcame their fears and spoke eloquently in front of their peers. Notably, some students who participated in the debate later contested for prefect positions in the school, delivering their manifestos with newfound confidence and receiving favourable votes. This shift in self-assurance allowed the school management to make better, more informed decisions regarding prefect appointments for the upcoming academic year, particularly for students previously perceived as shy or less active.

Four representatives from the Rotaract Club, a partnering organization, supported the programme, including a skill acquisition facilitator and two executive members. The school’s director, along with three other staff members, attended the event, ensuring strong institutional support and engagement throughout.

Lessons Learnt

The programme reinforced the value of civic engagement and its ability to make meaningful, lasting impacts on participants. Omobolanle also gained valuable experience in organizing and managing civic activities, as well as working closely with educational institutions and partner organizations.

Unintended Outcome

While the programme was scheduled to begin at 10 AM, a delay occurred due to the school’s ongoing senior prefect elections, followed by technical difficulties involving the Public Address System. Despite these setbacks, the programme proceeded without further issues, and adjustments were made to save time and ensure the event’s success.

Way Forward/Recommendations

Future initiatives should continue to prioritize partnerships and collaborations, as they provide valuable resources and expertise. Funding support is also essential to ensure smooth logistics and to encourage the convener to organize similar impactful events. Additionally, school debates on national and developmental topics should be held regularly to foster critical thinking, patriotism, and leadership skills in students across all groups.

Follow-up

The success of the programme inspired the school to propose a follow-up debate session for the following Monday. During this session, the participants and top-performing speakers will be rewarded for their efforts. Omobolanle has been invited to attend and witness this extended event, further deepening her engagement with the school and the students involved.

Objective of the Activity

The primary objective of this activity was to create awareness about menstrual hygiene among adolescent girls, a critical issue that is often overlooked due to socio-cultural barriers. These barriers, particularly in rural communities, limit young girls’ access to accurate information regarding reproductive health and menstruation. The session aimed to educate the girls on the importance of maintaining proper menstrual hygiene to safeguard their health and well-being. Additionally, this engagement was an opportunity to assess the participants’ current understanding of menstrual hygiene, allowing for more targeted future interventions.

Key Outcomes

The activity successfully provided participants with essential knowledge on how to manage menstruation and practice good hygiene during their cycles. The girls learned about the physical symptoms of menstruation and how to care for themselves during this period. Sanitary pads and personal hygiene materials were distributed to all the participants as part of the initiative to encourage proper menstrual care. By addressing menstruation openly, the session also broke the silence that often surrounds the topic, helping the girls become more confident and informed about their own bodies. This awareness further emphasized the importance of menstrual hygiene, which plays a crucial role in preventing health risks such as reproductive and urinary tract infections—conditions that, if untreated, could lead to infertility or complications during childbirth.

Key Highlights and Achievements

The programme achieved its goal of breaking down the stigma associated with menstruation, fostering a sense of openness and understanding among the students. Participants were encouraged to ask questions and share their personal experiences, creating a safe and supportive environment for learning. The distribution of 10 large packs of sanitary pads was a practical step in addressing the immediate hygiene needs of the girls. Moreover, the session raised public awareness about the serious health risks associated with poor menstrual hygiene and the long-term consequences it could have on young girls’ reproductive health.

Lessons Learnt

From the programme, it became evident that the students were eager to learn and open to new information. Their active participation throughout the session, as well as the thoughtful questions they asked, highlighted their willingness to embrace change and improve their understanding of reproductive health. The girls shared their experiences of adapting to the physical changes in their bodies and were provided with practical solutions to some of the concerns they raised. This engagement with the topic was encouraging, as it signalled that these young girls are on a path to becoming more informed and self-assured about their health. Their enthusiasm and attentiveness throughout the programme offer hope for a brighter future where they can confidently navigate their own reproductive health.

Unintended Outcomes

One unexpected outcome of the activity was the high level of interest and engagement displayed by the participants. Given the rural setting of the school, it was initially assumed that the students might be hesitant or less interested in such topics. However, they were not only attentive and well-behaved but also exceptionally eager to learn. This eagerness revealed the significant untapped potential for educating young girls in rural communities on matters of health and well-being.

Way Forward and Recommendations

There is a pressing need to continue organizing sensitization programmes like this in other schools, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Ongoing education is essential to ensure that more girls are informed about menstrual hygiene and public health. To make a more lasting impact, it is important to call on notable Nigerians, philanthropists, and non-governmental organizations to support such initiatives. Their contributions, in the form of donations of sanitary pads and other hygiene materials, would go a long way in supporting the health and education of young girls in public schools.

Follow-up and Next Steps

A follow-up to this programme is necessary to provide continued support and monitor the progress of the girls who participated. There is a need to ensure a consistent supply of sanitary pads and hygiene materials for the students. During this engagement, 10 large packs of sanitary pads were provided as a gesture of encouragement, but ongoing support will be essential to meet the girls’ long-term needs. A sustained focus on menstrual hygiene education will empower these young girls to take control of their health and futures.

Core Objectives:

The primary goal was to enlighten the students on how to be active participants in their communities by staying informed, engaging in public policy debates, and speaking up on issues that matter to them. The session aimed to spark interest in civic engagement among the students.

Key Outcomes:

The event was insightful and engaging, fostering a deeper understanding of civic awareness. The students learned how their involvement in civic matters can shape public policy and influence the future of their communities.

Lessons Learnt/Recommendation:

During the session, Abdullahi emphasized the importance of voting as a crucial civic duty, highlighting its role in driving change in governance and policy formulation. He also noted that many students were unaware of how to become active citizens before the session, making the event a timely and valuable opportunity for them to get involved in their communities.

Abdullahi identified a lack of civic awareness as a key factor contributing to civic and political apathy in Nigeria. To address this, he recommends expanding civic engagement programmes to reach more grassroots communities through radio, TV, and town hall meetings. He also suggested targeting students in various schools to encourage them to speak up and stay informed about issues that affect them.

Unexpected Outcomes:

The session sparked unexpected interest in holding more community engagements and sensitization programmes at the local level. There was also a strong advocacy for youth involvement in policy debates, with participants expressing a desire to take more active roles in shaping their communities.

Way Forward/Next Steps:

Inspired by the success of this session, Abdullahi plans to expand the reach of his civic awareness campaigns across Bauchi State, targeting more schools for greater participation. He aims to collaborate with traditional, religious, and community leaders to implement the lessons and recommendations from the session in ways that benefit local communities. His goal is to sustain the momentum and promote more youth inclusion in policy debates and governance.

As part of the Emerging Political Leaders Fellowship, a civic engagement initiative titled “Leadership in the Age of Artificial Intelligence” was undertaken on September 20, 2024, by Franklin Osuagwu to explore how emerging leaders can navigate the evolving landscape shaped by technology, especially AI. The objective was to understand its far-reaching implications and embrace its transformative potential while avoiding common pitfalls.

Core Objectives

This initiative was born out of several discussions with young people who expressed growing concerns about the lack of political mentors and the disconnect between technology, and governance. It became evident that while technology was advancing rapidly, many leaders tasked with making critical decisions were unaware of AI’s impact on governance and leadership, so are the younger ones looking up to them. AI is often seen as distant or reserved for tech experts, but its influence permeates every aspect of society, including government structures and leadership circles. The importance of this issue becomes even more pronounced considering the warnings of industry leaders like Dr. Masiyiwa. 

Key Outcomes 

The initiative brought together youths and professionals through an online session, which provided deep insights into both visionary leadership and the enthusiasm and skepticism surrounding AI. Many participants admitted being tribesmen other than good citizens which have affected the way they respond to national issues. They also acquiesced to having limited knowledge of AI’s role in governance and decision-making. However, through the interactive discussions, they had a clear understanding of what visionary leadership should be and the awareness of AI’s relevance to leadership and governance, particularly in its potential to improve service delivery, enhance transparency, and increase efficiency in government processes.

The initiative also succeeded in breaking down the stereotype that AI is only for tech enthusiasts, instead highlighting its potential for solving real-world challenges.

As a tangible result of the engagement, many participants pledged to integrate AI knowledge into their strategic planning and business operations. This proactive approach to AI adoption marked a significant step toward embracing the technology’s potential for growth and innovation.

Expected Outcomes

The civic engagement initiative has laid the groundwork for several outcomes that are expected to materialize in the coming months. Capacity building is one key area, as more young people are expected to seek additional training on several digital skills especially A.I, particularly its application in their everyday lives. Interest is already growing among participants who want to delve deeper into the ways AI can assist with data-driven decision-making. Resources have been provided to enable participants to continue self-development in this area.

Next Steps

The “Leadership in the Age of Artificial Intelligence” initiative is the beginning of a larger movement to ensure that leaders are prepared for the AI revolution. Moving forward, follow-up workshops will be organized to deepen the understanding of AI among interested participants. These workshops will focus on practical applications of AI in business, governance, and public service delivery. A particular focus will be on equipping youths in the community with various digital skills through a planned workshop targeting 100 young people by 2025.

Networking is another critical next step. Building a network of tech-enthusiasts will allow for continued collaboration, insights, and partnerships. Connections will be fostered between participants, AI experts, researchers, and tech firms to further enhance knowledge and practical application of AI in leadership.

Leadership in the age of artificial intelligence is an evolving conversation. It is essential to prepare today for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow. This civic engagement has made significant strides in positioning emerging leaders for the future, ensuring that AI becomes a tool for empowerment and progress, rather than a source of fear or confusion. The dialogue will continue, with the goal of making AI an integral part of leadership and governance transformation.

On September 27, 2024, our fellows convened for a Green Circle Conversation, addressing the critical issue of low voter turnout in Nigeria. The objective was to analyze the root causes of this challenge and propose actionable solutions. We recognize that low voter turnout undermines the democratic process and weakens the legitimacy of elected officials. To foster an in-depth conversation, we posed several thought-provoking questions to our fellows, focusing on key factors influencing voter engagement in Nigeria.

The session was moderated by Kwaghtagher Iwueseter-Natu, with contributions from the following 2024 Cohort fellows: Najibullah Yau, Ajibola Disu, Omobolanle Ayo-Alake, Olaolu Janet, and Godiya Haruna.

How effective is democracy as a tool for leadership in Nigeria, and is it meeting the developmental needs of the Nigerian people?

Najibullah highlighted that the 2015 General Elections marked a significant decline in Nigeria’s electoral process. Many voters became disillusioned, feeling that each successive leader failed to meet their expectations. This growing distrust has diminished confidence in democracy as a tool for both leadership and national development.

Why is voter registration and turnout crucial to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy, and what impact does voter participation have on governance?

Omobolanle emphasized that active voter participation is the cornerstone of a healthy democracy. It ensures accountability, public trust, and electoral integrity. Without sufficient voter engagement, citizens lose their power to hold leaders accountable, thereby compromising the legitimacy of elected officials.

What are the primary causes of voter apathy in Nigeria, and how do these factors undermine the democratic process?

Ajibola pointed out that poverty, lack of awareness, and misunderstanding of elected officials’ roles are major drivers of voter apathy. In a context where voter turnout is low, it becomes easier to manipulate election results, threatening the integrity of the democratic process.

How do inadequate infrastructure and logistical challenges impact voter turnout, and what specific barriers prevent citizens from voting?

Janet explained that Nigeria’s outdated electoral system, combined with limited access to polling units and doubts about the fairness of vote counts, deters many from voting. Civil society’s voter education efforts are commendable, but systemic issues continue to hinder greater participation.

In what ways might Nigeria’s electoral laws and policies contribute to low voter turnout, and are there legal reforms that could encourage greater participation?

Godiya noted that restrictive policies, such as the mandatory use of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), and the lack of consequences for electoral offenses, contribute to voter apathy. Legal reforms are needed to simplify the voting process and restore public trust in the system.

Key Insights and Recommendations:

The conversation made it clear that public trust and civic engagement are severely lacking in Nigeria’s electoral process. Several strategies were proposed to address these issues, starting with the revitalization of the National Orientation Agency (NOA). The NOA must play a central role in educating citizens on the importance of voting and fostering a culture of accountability.

Additionally, enforcing penalties for electoral offenses is critical to restoring trust. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) must take decisive steps to combat vote-buying and other forms of malpractice. Strengthening the judicial system to swiftly sanction offenders, including punitive measures like the revocation of passports and public exposure, will serve as a deterrent to future violations.

Re-engaging the Youth:

One of the key recommendations is to re-engage Nigerian youth, who have become increasingly disillusioned with the political landscape. This disengagement stems from unfulfilled promises, corruption, and a lack of representation. To address this, we must launch targeted civic education programs that resonate with young people, emphasizing the power of their vote and their ability to influence governance.

Leveraging digital platforms and social media, where young people are most active, is essential to rebuilding their trust in the electoral process. Voter education campaigns that address barriers such as registration difficulties and misinformation will help restore their faith in the system. By involving youth in grassroots activism, policy advocacy, and community service projects, we can foster a generation of informed and engaged citizens who view themselves as key stakeholders in Nigeria’s future.

Empowering youth is not just about encouraging them to vote—it’s about instilling in them the belief that they have the power to affect meaningful change.

The article dives deep into the challenges women face in attaining political leadership positions and offers insights into how stronger representation can drive inclusive policies. With diverse perspectives from our fellows, who bring rich expertise from various fields, this piece is a compelling call for action in strengthening women’s political participation across all levels of government.

This publication aligns with the Emerging Political Leaders Fellowship Programme mission to foster civic engagement and advocate for inclusive governance, and we are thrilled to share it with our community.

Read the full article https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Cx3P_VuMYW7ndEDH7XrCrRqPwb7EOUAT/view?usp=sharing