The Stream

#NigeriaDecides2019: Can young people get a voice?

The Stream considers how people in one of the world’s youngest countries can be heard in an election dominated by veterans.

Millions of people across Nigeria are getting ready to elect the country’s next president and members of the National Assembly. More than 70 politicians declared their candidacy for the presidency during the early days of election season but the contest has effectively boiled down to one between Muhammadu Buhari and Atiku Abubakar, two septuagenarians who have loomed large over the political scene for years.

One of their biggest challenges is to show they are mindful of the concerns of young people. The estimated median age of the population is 18.3 years old, making Nigeria one of the youngest countries in the world. Young Nigerians are concerned about issues as varied as healthcare, home and family life, education and employment, but a generation gap between the general population and those in the top echelons of power has many wondering if Nigeria will see dramatic change.

In the first of two special extended shows on Nigeria’s election, we’ll hear the thoughts of young politicians, activists and voters and ask them what is needed to revitalise governance for the benefit of an ever-more youthful country. Join the conversation.

On this episode of The Stream, we speak with:
Zainab Sulaiman Umar @zeechampion2019
Candidate for state House of Assembly

Samson Itodo @DSamsonItodo
Executive Director, YIAGA
yiaga.org

Omoyele Sowore @YeleSowore
Candidate for President, Nigeria
sowore2019.org

Aisha Salaudeen @aishasalaudeen
Jouranlist
nigeriaelections.stearsng.com

Read more:
Nigeria: Growing demand for youth inclusion in politics – Al Jazeera
As election nears, many young Nigerians sceptical of change – The Guardian Nigeria

What do you think? Record a video comment or leave your thoughts in the comments below.