Ambassadors for Good Governance Forum

Harnessing Youths Energy in Governance

By Dr. Paul Asukwo Etifit

Youths are the heartbeat of every nation. Their creativity, strength, innovation, and passion constitute a powerful force capable of transforming societies and strengthening democratic institutions. In today’s rapidly changing world, no nation can attain sustainable development without actively involving young people in governance and nation-building.

Governance is not only about leadership at the highest level; it is about participation, accountability, transparency, policy implementation, community engagement, and collective responsibility. The energy of the youths, when properly harnessed, can become a catalyst for national unity, economic growth, political stability, and social transformation.

Globally, youths are increasingly becoming active participants in governance through civic engagement, digital advocacy, policy dialogue, innovation, and community development initiatives. Studies on youth participation in governance have shown that meaningful inclusion of young people improves democratic outcomes, strengthens institutions, and enhances policy responsiveness.

Nigeria, with its large youthful population, possesses enormous human resources capable of reshaping the future of governance. Young Nigerians have continued to demonstrate exceptional talents in technology, entrepreneurship, education, entertainment, sports, and public service. However, despite their numerical strength and intellectual capacity, many youths remain underrepresented in decision-making processes. This gap has contributed to political apathy, unemployment, frustration, and social unrest in some quarters.

Harnessing youths’ energy in governance requires deliberate efforts by government institutions, political actors, civil society organizations, educational institutions, and community leaders. Young people must not merely be seen as instruments during elections but as partners in governance and development.

One of the major ways to harness youths’ energy is through political inclusion. Youths should be encouraged to participate actively in political processes, leadership development programmes, public administration, and policy formulation. The “Not Too Young To Run” movement in Nigeria demonstrated that young people possess the capacity to provide leadership and contribute meaningfully to democratic governance.

Education also plays a significant role in preparing youths for governance. Civic education, leadership training, digital literacy, and entrepreneurship development should be strengthened to equip young people with the knowledge and skills necessary for responsible leadership. A well-informed youth population becomes an asset to national development rather than a burden to society.

Digital technology has further created new opportunities for youth participation in governance. Through social media platforms, digital campaigns, online advocacy, and innovation hubs, youths now contribute to public discourse, monitor government activities, and demand accountability. Research on digital governance in Nigeria highlights the role of youths as drivers of transparency, innovation, and participatory governance in the digital age.

Furthermore, governments must create enabling environments that encourage youth participation. This includes:

* Establishing youth advisory councils;
* Creating mentorship programmes;
* Providing employment opportunities;
* Supporting youth-led enterprises;
* Promoting inclusion in governance structures;
* Investing in education and innovation;
* Encouraging volunteerism and community service.

When youths are empowered economically and politically, they become defenders of democracy, peace, and national progress. On the other hand, neglecting the youths creates vulnerability to crime, political manipulation, violence, and social instability.

The private sector also has an important role to play in harnessing youths’ energy. Investments in skills acquisition, innovation centres, internships, and digital empowerment programmes can prepare youths to contribute productively to governance and national development.

Religious institutions, traditional rulers, and community organizations should equally mentor youths toward patriotism, integrity, discipline, and responsible citizenship. Moral leadership remains essential in shaping future leaders with character and vision.

Across Africa and the world, there is growing recognition that youths are not merely leaders of tomorrow but partners in leadership today. International governance studies continue to emphasize the importance of youth engagement in policy implementation, community governance, and democratic participation.

To harness youths’ energy effectively, there must be trust between the government and young people. Leaders must listen to youth voices, involve them in governance processes, and create platforms where their ideas and innovations can flourish. Youth participation should move beyond symbolic representation to meaningful engagement and shared responsibility.

In conclusion, the future of any nation depends greatly on how it nurtures, empowers, and integrates its youths into governance. The energy, intelligence, creativity, and resilience of young people remain invaluable assets for national transformation. Harnessing youths’ energy in governance is therefore not an option but a necessity for sustainable development, peace, and democratic advancement.

A nation that empowers its youths secures its future. A government that invests in young people invests in lasting progress. The time has come for governments, institutions, and communities to recognize the immense potential of the youths and provide them with the opportunity to shape the destiny of society positively and productively.