In a remarkable shift, Nigeria’s youth played a constructive role in the 2015 general elections, defying the “doom youth theory” that had characterized their engagement in previous polls. This paradigm shift was driven by a growing awareness of the potential of young people to act as agents of change.
Unlike in prior elections, where youth engagement was motivated by a desire to change the outcome, often through destructive means, the 2015 elections saw a sense of duty to participate in public affairs. This change in attitude was fueled by social media, the success story of the Arab Spring, and the high stakes of the 2015 elections.
The youth’s constructive engagement was a significant factor in the success of the 2015 elections, which were deemed the most successful in Nigeria’s current republic. International and local observers praised the polls, noting the remarkable improvement in youth participation .
This newfound sense of civic responsibility among Nigeria’s youth is a promising development for the country’s democracy. As the youth continue to leverage social media and other tools to drive positive change, Nigeria’s future looks brighter than ever.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
