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Breaking barriers:  Imperative of youth, women inclusion in Nigerian politics

Youth and Women Inclusion in Politics refers to the deliberate and equitable involvement of young people (typically those aged 18-35) and women in political processes, governance, and decision-making. It emphasizes providing opportunities for these groups to actively participate in leadership roles, policymaking, and other political activities that shape the society they live in.

Citizens’ involvement in governance is crucial for ensuring a democratic and inclusive society where policies and decisions reflect the collective needs and aspirations of the people.

Active participation fosters transparency, accountability, and responsiveness among government officials. By voting in elections, engaging in public consultations, and monitoring government actions, citizens contribute to shaping policies that directly impact their lives.

This involvement empowers individuals to hold leaders accountable, advocate for social justice, and influence decision-making processes, thereby strengthening democratic institutions and promoting good governance.


Nigeria’s socio-political context is characterized by a diverse population, a federal system of governance, and persistent challenges such as corruption, ethnic tensions, insecurity, and economic inequality. Despite being Africa’s largest democracy, the country’s political landscape has been dominated by older male elites since independence in 1960.

Historically, youth and women have been excluded from meaningful political participation due to systemic barriers such as cultural norms, economic marginalization, and limited access to decision-making platforms. This exclusion has perpetuated a cycle of underrepresentation in leadership roles.

Although efforts like the Not Too Young To Run Act (2018) and increased advocacy for gender equality have begun to challenge these barriers, progress remains slow, with women holding only a fraction of political positions and youth often relegated to support roles rather than leadership.

During pre- independence era, youth organizations like the West African Students’ Union (WASU) and the Nigerian Youth Movement (NYM) were vital in mobilizing resistance against colonial rule. Prominent leaders such as Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, and Herbert Macaulay spearheaded nationalist movements, advocating for Nigeria’s independence through political activism and constitutional reforms.

Women primarily participated indirectly in political struggles through economic and social advocacy, with a focus on grassroots mobilization for improved living conditions. Leaders like Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti played key roles, exemplified by the Abeokuta Women’s Revolt against colonial taxation and injustice.

During post-independemce era,youths were historically sidelined in politics, with elder politicians dominating the scene, despite their active role in protests during military regimes and pro-democracy movements of the 1980s and 1990s. Recently, youth movements like #EndSARS have demonstrated renewed energy in advocating for accountability and governance reforms.

Post-independence, women’s participation in politics has gradually increased, with more women holding positions, though they remain underrepresented. Influential figures like Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Aisha Buhari, alongside efforts by gender-focused NGOs and advocacy groups, have contributed to slow but steady progress in female representation.

Women played crucial roles in independence struggles by leading protests, mobilizing communities, and advocating for rights, exemplified by figures like Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti in Nigeria.

Similarly, youth were instrumental in early political movements, driving change through activism, forming nationalist organizations, and challenging colonial rule.

Military regimes in Nigeria often centralized power, suppressed political opposition, and excluded broader participation, limiting political inclusion and fostering authoritarian rule.

Early civilian governments, while reintroducing democratic frameworks, struggled with ethnic tensions and corruption, which sometimes hindered equitable political representation and participation.

Socio-cultural barriers hinder youth and women inclusion in Nigerian politics through entrenched traditional norms, patriarchal attitudes, and generational hierarchies that limit their participation. These challenges are further compounded by stereotypes, lack of financial resources, and exclusion from decision-making processes within political parties.

Youths in Nigeria are often perceived as inexperienced and immature, which undermines their political participation. Additionally, high campaign costs, economic dependency, and unemployment further hinder their ability to engage actively in politics.

The dominance of godfatherism and entrenched political elites hinders the inclusion of youth and women in politics by limiting opportunities for fresh leadership and fostering patronage-based systems. This entrenched power dynamic marginalizes underrepresented groups, making it difficult for them to access resources and decision-making roles.

The insufficient implementation of policies like the Not Too Young to Run Act continues to hinder youth and women from gaining equitable representation in politics. This gap is exacerbated by systemic barriers such as limited access to resources, entrenched political structures, and inadequate support for inclusive participation.

In spite of the challenges,the political participation of youth and women has significantly improved through policies like the Not Too Young to Run Act, which lowers the age requirement for officeholders, and gender-focused initiatives aimed at empowering women.

High-profile figures like Aisha Yesufu and Khadijah Okunnu-Lamidi have broken barriers, inspiring greater youth and female involvement in politics. The emergence of young lawmakers at both state and federal levels reflects growing acceptance of younger, diverse political leaders.

Civil Society Organisations, NGOs, and international bodies have played a vital role in promoting inclusion by advocating for policy reforms, training candidates, and raising awareness.

Youth and women inclusion in political participation brings fresh ideas and perspectives, enhancing the responsiveness of governance.

It strengthens representational democracy by addressing issues like education, unemployment, and gender equity.

Their involvement fosters greater accountability and reduces political stagnation, ensuring more dynamic and inclusive leadership.

To improve political participation of youth and women, policy reforms should include mandatory gender quotas and full implementation of laws promoting their involvement.

Capacity building efforts should focus on political education and leadership training, while media can be used to challenge stereotypes and foster inclusivity.

Economic empowerment through support for youth and women entrepreneurs can boost financial independence and strengthening civil society and advocating for electoral reforms, such as enhancing security and fairness, are essential for a more inclusive political environment.

Youth and women inclusion in Nigerian politics is crucial for sustainable development, as it ensures diverse perspectives and equitable representation in decision-making.

Addressing barriers such as systemic discrimination, inadequate resources, and cultural biases requires immediate and actionable steps to level the playing field.

Governments, political parties, and civil society must collaborate to implement policies, mentorship programmes, and capacity-building initiatives that empower marginalized groups. By fostering inclusivity, Nigeria can unlock its full potential and build a more representative and progressive democracy.


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Breaking barriers:  Imperative of youth, women inclusion in Nigerian politics

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