The EU is enhancing Nigerian democracy by supporting programs that empower youth in politics, particularly through the Constituency Office Internship Programme, offering them hands-on legislative experience and fostering engagement with lawmakers.
The European Union reaffirmed its commitment to bolstering democracy in Nigeria by enhancing the political involvement of youth. This is achieved through financial support for programs aimed at empowering young individuals in governance roles, specifically the Yiaga Africa’s Constituency Office Internship Programme, which spans three months and commenced in December 2024.
The internship program is designed to equip young participants with practical knowledge of the legislative processes and foster effective connections between lawmakers and the electorate. Zissimos Vergos, the Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, emphasized the critical role young people play in Nigeria’s democratic development, necessitating their engagement in electoral and governance activities.
Vergos stated, “Young people… play a significant role in developing Nigeria’s democracy by actively participating in the electoral and governance processes…” He underscored the importance of ethical engagement in democracy, asserting the need to provide platforms for youth to collaborate in governance.
Adding to this, Yetunde Bakarei, Program Manager at Yiaga Africa, acknowledged the European Union’s support, essential for deploying young interns to constituency offices, which consequently encourages youth involvement in policymaking. She remarked on the program’s significance in fostering relationships between lawmakers and their communities.
Intern Olaiya Oluwadamilola shared how the internship has dramatically increased her confidence and sparked her desire to engage in politics while contributing to her community. Another intern, Salihu Gode, highlighted the role of mentorship in her growth and her determination to foster women’s participation in politics, aligning with the EU’s focus on inclusive governance.
The European Union’s initiative stems from a broader objective to strengthen democratic institutions in Nigeria by engaging youth directly in the political sphere. Programs like the Constituency Office Internship serve as vehicles to educate and involve young people in governance, thereby cultivating a new generation of leaders committed to ethical practice and active civic participation.
In summary, the EU’s collaboration with Yiaga Africa through the Constituency Office Internship Programme is a strategic effort to cultivate youth involvement in Nigerian politics. By offering practical experience and networking opportunities, the initiative empowers young people to contribute to democratic processes, thereby enhancing legislative engagement and fostering responsible leadership.
Original Source: punchng.com
