The EU empowers youths in governance and politics.

Keep up with the latest news and be part of our weekly giveaways and airtime sharing; follow our WhatsApp channel for more updates. Click to Follow us

The European Union (EU) is bolstering Nigeria’s democratic governance through various programs aimed at empowering young people in politics and governance. One such initiative is the Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGN) Programme, which funds Yiaga Africa’s Constituency Office Internship Programme.

This 3-month internship, which began in December 2024, provides young individuals with hands-on experience in constituency offices and legislature-constituent relations. By placing interns in lawmakers’ offices, the program fosters engagement with lawmakers, meaningful contributions to policy discussions, and constituency engagement.

According to Zissimos Vergos, Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, “Young people play very significant roles in developing Nigeria’s democracy by actively participating in the electoral and governance processes.” He emphasised the importance of providing platforms for young people to engage in the country’s governance process, stating, “The time for making excuses is over… Rather than criticising democracy, we must focus on ethical decisions that shape its practice.”

Yiaga Africa’s Programme Manager, Yetunde Bakarei, highlighted the program’s impact on strengthening lawmaker-constituency relationships, saying, “The Constituency Office Internship Programme encourages youth participation in the democratic process, ensuring young people shape policies that affect them.

Interns have praised the program for enhancing their skills and inspiring them to pursue careers in politics. Olaiya Oluwadamilola noted, “This internship has enhanced my communication skills, boosted my confidence, and inspired me to give back to my community.” Salihu Gode appreciated the EU’s vision for inclusive governance, emphasising the importance of mentorship for her career development and political ambition.

Gode also expressed her commitment to empowering women and promoting female participation in politics, an area the EU actively supports.

The EU’s efforts to promote youth participation in governance and politics are crucial in shaping Nigeria’s democratic future. As Zissimos Vergos noted, “Young people play very significant roles in developing Nigeria’s democracy by actively participating in the electoral and governance processes.”

The Constituency Office Internship Programme is a testament to the EU’s commitment to empowering young Nigerians. Yetunde Bakarei emphasised, “The Constituency Office Internship Programme encourages youth participation in the democratic process, ensuring that young people are involved in shaping policies that affect them.”

The programme’s impact is evident in the testimonials of its interns. Olaiya Oluwadamilola shared, “This internship has not only enhanced my communication skills and boosted my confidence, but it has also inspired me to give back to my community and pursue a career in politics.”

Salihu Gode echoed this sentiment, saying, “With the skills and knowledge I’ve acquired, I’m confident that I can drive meaningful change in my community and contribute to Nigeria’s democratic growth.”

The EU’s support for youth development in Nigeria is a step in the right direction. As the country continues to navigate its democratic journey, it is essential to empower young people to take an active role in shaping their future.

Please don’t forget to “allow the notification” so you will be the first to get our gist when we publish it. 
Drop your comment in the section below, and don’t forget to share the post.