In a bid to address the underrepresentation of youth in Nigerian politics, over 150 young political aspirants, civic leaders, and stakeholders gathered at the ‘Pre-Election Forum for Young Aspirants’ in Lagos.
The event, organised by the Inspired Youth Network in partnership with ActionAid Nigeria, aimed to equip young leaders with practical training, mentorship, and strategic tools necessary for effective political participation.
With Nigeria’s population being predominantly young over 70% under the age of 35 the forum highlighted the urgency of engaging youth in governance, especially at the local level where political decisions have immediate community impact.
The event forms part of the Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA II), a €190 million multi-country initiative led by ActionAid Denmark to strengthen democratic governance, promote gender justice, and amplify youth voices across 20 countries.
Participants received comprehensive capacity-building sessions focused on electoral laws, campaign strategies, ethical leadership, and community service.
The Governance Specialist at ActionAid Nigeria, Judith Gbagidi emphasised the significance of the event: “This is not just another event on the calendar. It is a declaration that young people are no longer waiting on the sidelines of power they are stepping into it.”
Project Manager at Inspired Youth Network Oluwatosin Adejokun described the forum as a platform for developing not only candidates but community-rooted change-makers.
“We want them to run not just as candidates, but as change-makers rooted in community realities,” she said.
Sessions were led by seasoned professionals, including Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria Comrade Adiku Odikanwho called on aspirants to prioritise integrity and grassroots development.
Business consultant Adeniji Oluwafemi Boboye encouraged youths to become advocates for transparency, while one of the guest speakers, Kawther Salaludeen provided critical insights on election preparedness and campaign messaging.
Gender Adviser at LEAP Africa, Aderinsola Amobi-Daniel, highlighted the need for inclusive leadership, especially for women and marginalized groups.
A key moment was the signing of the Youth Civic Expectations Pledge by councillorship aspirants, committing them to transparency, ethical leadership, and community-centered governance.
This public affirmation underscores a growing movement toward accountability and competence in Nigerian politics. The forum concluded with renewed optimism among participants, many of whom expressed readiness to influence governance positively.
“This is just the beginning,” Adejokun said. “We are not just building candidates; we are nurturing ethical, visionary leaders for the future of Nigeria.”