EU Invests In Nigerian Youth To Bolster Democracy

The European Union (EU) is actively contributing to Nigeria’s democratic development by empowering young people to participate in governance.

Through the Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGN) Programme, the EU has funded Yiaga Africa’s Constituency Office Internship Programme, a three-month initiative designed to equip young Nigerians with practical experience in legislative processes and constituency engagement.

The programme, which ran from December 2024 to February 2025, placed interns in the constituency offices of lawmakers.

This provided them with firsthand experience of legislative procedures, allowing them to engage with elected officials, contribute to policy discussions, and participate directly in constituency outreach.

Zissimos Vergos, Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, emphasized the EU’s belief in the importance of active citizen engagement for a thriving democracy.

“Young people play a very significant role in developing Nigeria’s democracy,” Vergos stated. He stressed the need to provide platforms for youth participation and condemned the use of excuses to avoid ethical conduct in governance, stating, “The time for making excuses is over.”

Yetunde Bakare, Yiaga Africa’s Programme Manager, highlighted the programme’s success in strengthening the relationship between lawmakers and their constituents.

She praised the EU’s support, noting that the internship program would not have been possible without their funding.

The impact on the interns themselves has been significant. Olaiya Oluwadamilola described the experience as transformative, stating that it had enhanced her communication skills, boosted her confidence, and inspired her to pursue a career in politics.

Fellow intern Salihu Gode lauded the EU’s vision for inclusive governance and the importance of mentorship, emphasizing her commitment to empowering women in politics.

The EU’s investment in this youth-focused initiative underscores its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s democratic growth and fostering a more inclusive and participatory political landscape.

The success of the programme demonstrates the potential of empowering young Nigerians to be active agents of change in their communities and the nation as a whole.