ngyouthagenda

JustificationNigeria burgeoning youth population provide a huge social, economic and political capitalstrequired to drive socio-political and economic development. On the 31 October 2011, the worldpopulation hit 7 billion and Nigeria's population increased to 167 Million (National PopulationCommission). With over 60% of the country voting population dominated by young eligible6voters , it is critical to give them their rightful place in the political space.One of the cardinal significance of democracy is the right of citizens to freely express themselvesand get involved in the democratic process with a view to shaping how their society is governed.It is trite knowledge that civic participation is essential for the survival of democracy in any climeand Nigeria is not an exception. Therefore young people should be given the space andopportunity to participate freely in electoral politics.In an attempt to guarantee proper management of elections in Nigeria, the Electoral Act has beenamended at different times. However, little attention is paid to how the electoral law makesparticipation and inclusivity a priority. Youth participation in democratic processes providesyoung people with a unique opportunity to canvass recommendations that addresses thepolitical and socio-economic concerns of Nigerian youth. There is no better expression ofdemocracy than for all citizens to be able to participate and express themselves on how they wantto be governed. Where legal frameworks and laws inhibit the participation of any group ofpersons, it is pertinent that such laws be amended to safeguard and guarantee citizensparticipation.6Ibid8