A major initiative aimed at actively engaging Nigeria's youth in the democratic process ahead of the 2027 general elections has been launched. The European Union (EU) and the Rosa Luxemburg Foundation (RLF) Nigeria, in collaboration with Social Action and 'We the People', have introduced a three-year youth democracy project named 'INCLUDE NAIJA'.
Project Goals and University Hubs
Formally called the 'Inclusive Democracy and Empowerment Network for Active Youth in Nigeria (2025–2027)', the project seeks to strengthen civic engagement, promote fundamental human rights, and equip young Nigerians with practical skills for democratic participation. The initiative is strategically targeted at universities, with four institutions selected as primary hubs: the University of Abuja, Veritas University in Bwari, Nasarawa State University in Keffi, and Bayero University in Kano.
The programme's activities are designed to rotate yearly across these campuses. Key components include annual democracy capacity-building workshops, specialised mentorship programmes for female student leaders, and organised advocacy visits to pivotal institutions like the National Assembly and the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.
Workshops, Mentorship, and Advocacy in Action
The project has already moved from planning to action. The inaugural democracy capacity-building workshop for 2025 was held on June 24 at the University of Abuja, gathering students from the participating institutions. Discussions focused on critical themes such as the workings of representative democracy, the role of citizens in policymaking, advocacy for social inclusion and equity, and practical civic engagement strategies like lobbying and grassroots organising.
A cornerstone of INCLUDE NAIJA is its female-focused mentorship programme, which aims to train 80 female students annually. This initiative connects aspiring student leaders with accomplished women who have transitioned from student union activism to prominent roles in civil society, public service, and politics. In 2025, four mentorship sessions were conducted across the partner universities, featuring notable mentors including Ene Obi, Comfort Idika Ogunye, Dr. Fatima Hassan, Honourable Sadaatu Sani, and Aisha Ibrahim Dankani.
The project's advocacy component also saw students gain firsthand legislative experience. In September 2025, participants attended a National Assembly public hearing on constitutional amendments, providing them with direct exposure to the law-making process.
Building a New Generation of Leaders
Organisers state that INCLUDE NAIJA is fundamentally designed to cultivate a new generation of informed, confident, and inclusive youth leaders who are capable of positively shaping Nigeria's democratic future. Feedback from participating students has been overwhelmingly positive, with many describing the sessions as inspiring and impactful. They reported a significant increase in their awareness of governance structures, leadership dynamics, and personal civic responsibility.
The INCLUDE NAIJA project will run through 2027, with its series of workshops, mentorship schemes, and advocacy efforts continuing to build momentum and capacity among Nigerian youth as the next election cycle approaches.
