Breaking Barriers: Youth inclusion and the future of Nigerian politics, by Alheri Gideon Mshelia
The question of whether young Nigerians can move from the protest grounds into the chambers of policy-making is a pressing one. Youth participation in governance is essential to sustaining democracy, as it introduces fresh ideas, innovative thinking, and a stronger link to the realities of the people. Yet, in Nigeria, the path from activism to real influence remains littered with obstacles.
Despite Nigeria’s vast youth population, its political representation remains disproportionately low. The passage of the “Not Too Young to Run Bill” in May 2018, which reduced the age requirement for elective offices, raised hopes for wider inclusion. However, systemic challenges—from financial barriers to cultural biases—continue to stifle meaningful youth participation, creating a disconnect between those in power and the majority of the population they govern.
Adebayo Ibrahim, a human resources expert and advocate for governance reforms, has repeatedly stressed the importance of inclusion. To him, political inclusion means providing opportunities for every Nigerian, especially the youth, to be trusted with decision-making responsibilities. “Policy is not made on the streets,” Ibrahim notes. “If young people are serious about change, they must enter the rooms where laws are debated, budgets are allocated, and decisions are made. Once there, they must also fight to sustain their place.”
While the “Not Too Young to Run” initiative raised expectations, its impact has been limited. For instance, Ibrahim Mohammed, representing Birnin-Kebbi/Kalgo/Bunza federal constituency, is among the youngest in office, yet such cases remain exceptions rather than the norm. A far greater proportion of youth representation is required to validate the success of the policy.
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Perhaps the most formidable barrier is financial. With nomination forms often running into millions of naira, many young aspirants are priced out of the political process. Ibrahim emphasises: “The cost of entry into politics is too high for most young people. This excludes diverse voices and fuels corruption, as those who manage to enter often see politics as an investment to be recouped.” The absence of accessible funding and campaign resources further compounds the problem, leaving young candidates at a disadvantage against wealthy political veterans.
Cultural attitudes also stand in the way. Nigerian society traditionally leans toward elder leadership, with young people often dismissed as inexperienced. Ibrahim explains, “Experience is equated with wisdom, and youth are perceived as unprepared to govern. This mindset entrenches exclusion and deprives governance of innovative solutions.” The lack of structured mentorship for aspiring young leaders only widens this gap, making it harder for them to gain the political skills and networks needed for success.
Bridging this divide requires deliberate reforms. Electoral changes such as lowering campaign costs, enforcing integrity measures like drug testing for candidates, and even making some political positions part-time could create a fairer system. “We must design a level playing field where merit, not money, determines who competes,” Ibrahim argues.
Equally important is encouraging young Nigerians to start from local government politics. At this level, they can build credibility, gather experience, and directly impact their communities. “Local government is where young people can learn, test their ideas, and prove they can deliver,” Ibrahim insists. Building from the grassroots will give them the foundation needed to eventually shape national policy.
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The role of technology cannot be ignored. Social media has proven to be a powerful mobilisation tool, but it must evolve from online activism into actionable political participation. “We’ve seen its power in raising awareness,” Ibrahim explains. “Now it must drive concrete action—whether contesting elections or holding leaders accountable.”
A temporary but impactful measure could be the adoption of a quota system, reserving a percentage of political seats for youth. “Quotas can serve as a corrective tool,” Ibrahim suggests. “They provide a pathway for young leaders to gain the exposure and experience they need, helping to balance decades of generational exclusion.”
Nigeria’s political future depends on the vibrancy of its youth. Addressing systemic barriers, reforming the electoral landscape, promoting mentorship, and opening leadership doors are crucial steps to unleashing the potential of this demographic. By doing so, the nation can channel the innovation and energy of its youth into building a fairer, stronger, and more prosperous Nigeria.
Alheri Gideon Mshelia is a student of Mass Communication at the Muhammadu Buhari University of Maiduguri (formerly University of Maiduguri), Borno State.
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