Youth Empowerment Drives Political Engagement in Nigeria

Young Nigerians were emerging as an increasingly influential force in the country’s political landscape ahead of the 2023 presidential election. Their growing participation reflected a desire to shape governance, influence public policy and demand greater representation in government.

Young people constitute a major demographic group in Nigeria, with more than 60% of the population reportedly under the age of 30. The African Liberty article also stated that Nigerians under 35 accounted for 39.65% of the country’s 93.47 million registered voters. However, the methodology and official basis for that figure were not provided in the available material.

The increased interest in politics was driven by several factors, including socioeconomic hardship, high unemployment, concerns about inadequate education and dissatisfaction with corruption and traditional political structures. Many young Nigerians were seeking alternatives and greater influence over decisions affecting their lives.

Digital technology created important channels for political discussion and mobilisation. Platforms such as Twitter, WhatsApp and Instagram enabled young people to share information, organise campaigns and advocate for change. Movements such as #EndSARS demonstrated the ability of young Nigerians to mobilise around issues including police brutality, accountability and governance.

Social media also brought risks, particularly the spread of misinformation. This made fact-checking and careful examination of candidates, party platforms and policy proposals essential for informed voting.

As voter-registration deadlines approached, civic groups worked to encourage young citizens, especially first-time voters, to register and participate in the electoral process. Initiatives such as the “Vote Not Fight” campaign focused on civic education and peaceful participation, while the Independent National Electoral Commission said it had introduced measures to simplify registration.

Research published later in the TWIST journal provided further insight into the obstacles facing young Nigerians. The study, published on 22 November 2024, was based on semi-structured interviews with 30 young people (18 males and 12 females) from different parts of Nigeria who were living in Lagos. Its authors, Chinedu O. Onyewuchi, Datuk Professor Dr Jayum Anak Jawan and Datuk Professor Dr Zaid Ahmad, identified socioeconomic hardship, low political awareness, disillusionment, limited access to political platforms and systemic corruption as major barriers.