In commemoration of the Democracy Day Celebration in Nigeria, stakeholders have urged Nigerian youths to participate in labour activities and democracy for social change in the country.
The stakeholders comprising the Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC, Non-Governmental Organizations, young activist and representatives from the National Assembly were brought together by the Open Minds – Young Voices Programme (OMYV), a non-partisan empowerment programme on a roundtable with the theme: Reimagining the Labour Movement: Intergenerational Conversation for a Better Nigeria.
At the event which took place in Abuja, Nigeria, the Director, Abuja School of Social and Political Thoughts, Sam Amadi said youth organizations must consciously invest in building an organic relationship with the trade and labour union movement for mentoring and career shaping, particularly with the NLC that has been a leading force for democracy and social justice in Nigeria.
“Young people are the future. So the social movement must mainstream them in the struggle for a better Nigeria,” he said.
Amadi encouraged Nigerian youths to aspire for leadership positions and advocate for the return of the country to good governance. He emphasised that with digital technology, youths can mobilise and disseminate information effectively, bypassing government restrictions and firewalls, which empowers them to shape socio-economic outcomes and hold leaders accountable.
“We must embrace the collective duty of rebuilding a society built on the foundation of truth: A keen observation of the affairs of the Nigerian state reveals a tragic and terrible dilapidation of the foundation of truth in Nigeria. We must bring back consciousness and critically evaluate the prevailing ideology.” He said.
Amadi, while decrying the death of mentoring and role modelling, urged Nigerian youths to aspire to be engaged in the process of leadership recruitment in the country.
“Youth organisations should identify with socio-economic programs of the NLC that capture their interest. Priority should be given to the Climate Change, Green Jobs, Just Transition and Trade and Decent Work programs of the NLC, given the enormous potential and opportunities they offer to young people.” He said.
Similarly, the representative of the National Assembly, Mr. Benedict Chukwuma, stated that conversations between the youths and labour leaders will pave the way for a dynamic and inclusive labour movement that addresses the challenges of today, bridges perspectives, empowers the next generation, and builds solidarity.
“The youth bring fresh ideas, innovative solutions, and a deep understanding of contemporary issues, while seasoned leaders offer invaluable experience and historical context. Together, we can bridge the gap between past struggles and future aspirations.” He noted
Mr. Chukwuma advised that the journey of reimagining the labour movement be committed toward fostering an inclusive dialogue that values every voice, harnesses the strengths of both youth and experienced labour leaders, and creates a powerful movement that champions workers’ rights, promotes social justice, and builds a better Nigeria for all.
While highlighting the history and gains of the Nigerian Labour Congress, the NLC representative, Eche Asuzu noted that the event was a platform to foster a collaborative exchange between youths and NLC by bringing in fresh ideas and perspectives into the labour movement, ultimately contributing to a more just and equitable society for all Nigerians.
“We are committed to ensure the rights of workers are protected, we all also have a responsibility of mentoring young people on Union movement to ensure social progress in Nigeria,” he stated.
The representative of OMYV, Miss Linda Raji said the event was organised to empower young people with direct access to NLC leadership and accurate information, with the overall objective of activating their potential as digital advocates, grassroots mobilizers, and movement builders.
The event also featured a panel session on “Youth Movements and Labour Organising: Finding Common Ground in a Digital Era”.