It is recognized that involving youth in public decision-making processes plays an important role in ensuring the realization of their rights. However, the demand for recognition of the right of young people to be heard, to have their views considered, and to play an active role in promoting their own best interests is far from respected in Africa. Youths tend to feel that their voices are not heard nor do they have any role in the decision-making process. The reason for this is that governments and societies in Africa and in Nigeria in particular believe that young people are too young to make decisions and to make a difference. Consequently, they are rarely afforded equitable access to opportunities. Among the many other issues facing youth in Nigeria and the African region are high rates of youth unemployment, increased rates of child marriage, lack of gender equality, limited access to health services particularly sexual and reproductive health services, and limited roles in civic participation and engagement. Additionally, investing in youth participation has not been a priority, despite many of these emerging issues.
Strengthening Youth Participation in Anti-corruption – 5 states
YPAC was a five (5) year behavioral change intervention that seeks to engage youths to become active advocates in the fight against corruption by mobilizing youth groups nationally through capacity building, social marketing/behavior change communication and civic engagement activities.
The project is implemented in the FCT, Akwa-Ibom, Kano, Lagos and Rivers states. The project targets male and female youth between the ages of 18-35 including youths with disability.
Strengthening Students Networks for Inclusive Activism in Kano, Akwa Ibom and Lagos States
The project played a pivotal role in empowering students across Kano, Akwa Ibom, and Lagos States. By fostering collaboration, awareness, and advocacy, the project addressed critical issues affecting students and contributed to positive change. The project successfully established student networks that transcended institutional boundaries. These networks connected individuals from diverse backgrounds, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. Students found common ground, exchanged ideas, and collaborated on initiatives. The project empowered students to advocate for their rights and interests. Through workshops, seminars, and campaigns, students learned effective advocacy strategies. They engaged with policymakers, demanding improvements in education, social justice, and youth empowerment.
Increasing Youth Participation in Electoral Processes, 6 States in the South South
Funded by IFES, this project enhanced youth engagement in electoral processes across six states in the South South region of Nigeria. By fostering awareness, education, and active involvement, the project strengthen the democratic participation among young citizens.
Your Excellency Mobile Game
Your Excellency is an adventure civic mobile game which is designed to be a learning tool for young people on governance: the structures, processes and activities with key highlight on the role of citizens in improving governance and engaging in the governance process. The game is called EXCELLENCY inspired from the words ―Your Excellency‖ which is used to address governors and presidents and to make a statement on aspiring for excellence in governance. EXCELLENCY is designed to have players play the role of active citizens first before playing the role of an executive through the three tiers of government: local government, state government and federal government. Players symbolically run for electoral office starting from active citizen to attain governorship position.
The game was launched in August 2018 with attendance of key stakeholders anchored by a celebrity ambassador. The Commissioner of Youths, Lagos state did the official launching.
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