In an effort to address the persistent issue of young underrepresentation in governance, the Nigerian government launched an initiative aimed at promoting youth participation. The populace of Nigeria and the people in positions of leadership have historically differed greatly in terms of demographics. The aim for young participation is essential for representing Nigeria’s demographic reality in its governing institutions, since more than 60% of the country’s population is under 25. The 2018 “Not Too Young to Run” bill lowered the age requirement to run for public office; however, the 30% inclusion program goes one step further by attempting to formalize adolescent involvement in administration.
Dr. Jamila Bio states that the project aims to guarantee that young people, who are classified as those under 40, hold at least 30% of posts in government at all levels. This action is not only symbolic; it also aims to infuse the decision-making process with new ideas and viewpoints. In a statement that emphasized the government’s commitment to young empowerment, Dr. Bio said, “We are working to ensure that youth are not just participants but leaders in governance.”
More progressive policies may result from increased representation.
Also, young entrepreneurs in Nigeria play a critical role, as demonstrated by the event, “Forging the Future: Youth-Led MSMEs Innovating with Digital Solutions to Secure Sustainable Growth, Global Trade, and Resilient Food and Energy Systems.” Despite obstacles including restricted access to funding, Ms. Elsie G. Attafuah, the UNDP’s Resident Representative in Nigeria, stressed the importance of youth-led start-ups in fostering innovation. The occasion emphasized how crucial Technology is to the expansion of SMEs and how much it contributes to Nigeria’s GDP.
This policy may have important ramifications. For instance, at least 15 of the 48 ministers that currently make up Nigeria’s Federal Executive Council (FEC) would be young people if the policy were to be implemented and applied to the current composition of the council. Since younger people are frequently more aware of global trends and technological advancements, more progressive policies that appeal to them may result from increased representation. Nevertheless, law is not the only factor that will determine this initiative’s success.
Youth unemployment is currently a problem in Nigeria.
Initiatives to create capacity must be implemented in tandem with the participation of youth in governance in order to prepare youth for leadership positions. At 13.4%, youth Unemployment is currently a problem in Nigeria, and many of the country’s young people lack the necessary skills to handle the challenges of administration. Leading Special Assistant to the President on SDGs Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire noted that “the frustration among unemployed youth is a ticking time bomb, and giving them a seat at the table without the necessary tools to succeed could lead to disillusionment.”
Furthermore, this policy has the potential to be revolutionary from the standpoint of young entrepreneurs. 73% of Nigerian entrepreneurs are between the ages of 18 and 35, with 60% having completed postsecondary education, according to data from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Even still, the majority of these companies make less than one million Naira a year. These figures highlight how youth-oriented initiatives may affect economic expansion. These enterprises could grow and make a greater economic contribution if young leaders can push for improved infrastructure, Digital Literacy initiatives, and easier access to capital.
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The 30% youth participation policy may have wider effects that go beyond governance and have an impact on social and economic development. This policy might have a significant impact on how Nigeria develops because the ICT sector accounts for 13% of the country’s GDP and because youth-led solutions have the potential to address issues like financial inclusion and food security. However, in order for this potential to be realized, comprehensive measures that equip young leaders with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed must be implemented alongside the policy.