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Introduction

Nigeria, a nation rich in history and potential, has seen its democratic journey evolve over decades. While the country's founding fathers were young, passionate leaders, the current state of youth involvement in politics paints a starkly different picture. This article delves into the challenges Nigerian youth face in participating meaningfully in the democratic process, exploring the factors that have pushed them to the margins.

A Lost Generation: The Decline of Youth in Leadership

The early years of Nigerian independence witnessed a remarkable rise of youthful leadership. Figures like Tafawa Balewa and Nnamdi Azikiwe, both in their prime, demonstrated the potential of young people to shape the nation's destiny. However, this trend has gradually eroded, with a noticeable decline in the number of young people occupying top government positions.

The Distraction of Entertainment: A Double-Edged Sword

While the entertainment industry has provided a platform for many young Nigerians to showcase their talents and earn a living, it has also become a significant distraction from political engagement. The allure of fame, fortune, and instant gratification has diverted the attention of many youth away from the complexities of governance.

Government Neglect and Youth Frustration

The Nigerian government's failure to provide an enabling environment for youth development has further marginalized young people. Lack of access to quality education, employment opportunities, and basic amenities has fueled frustration and disillusionment. Many young Nigerians have resorted to self-employment or informal work, often in the entertainment industry, as a means of survival.

Obstacles to Political Participation

Several factors have hindered the political participation of Nigerian youth:

• High Cost of Political Office: The exorbitant fees associated with contesting for political positions have placed a significant barrier to entry for many young people.
• Godfatherism and Corruption: The prevalence of godfatherism and corruption within the political system has made it difficult for young, independent candidates to gain traction.
• Intimidation and Violence: Political violence and intimidation have discouraged many young people from entering the political arena, particularly in regions with high levels of insecurity.

A Call for Change

To revitalize Nigerian democracy, it is imperative to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for youth participation. This requires:

• Reducing the Cost of Political Office: Implementing measures to reduce the financial burden on aspiring politicians.
• Strengthening Anti-Corruption Measures: Combating corruption to ensure a level playing field for all candidates.
• Promoting Youth Empowerment: Investing in youth development programs, education, and entrepreneurship initiatives.
• Encouraging Civic Engagement: Fostering a culture of civic participation and volunteerism among young people.

By addressing these challenges and creating a more conducive environment, Nigeria can harness the energy, creativity, and potential of its youth to build a stronger, more prosperous, and democratic nation.