The future of Nigerian governance depends on the active participation of its youth. With this conviction, YouPaD, in partnership with the Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES) and the Katsina State Government, convened an inspiring Youth Agora in Katsina State. The event’s theme was a direct challenge to the status quo: “Transforming from Spectators to Leaders: Challenges and Prospects for Young People in Politics and Governance.”
This was not a passive conference; it was a dynamic forum for action. Young people from across the state came together to speak truth, ask tough questions, and demand a new paradigm of political engagement. The dialogue was structured to move beyond complaining about problems to co-creating practical solutions.
“This wasn’t just a conversation, it was a call to action. It’s time to move from ‘we want change’ to ‘we are the change.'”
We explored critical barriers to youth political participation, identified significant gaps in leadership and representation, and brainstormed bold, actionable solutions to shift youth from the sidelines to the driver’s seat. This event marks a pivotal moment in building a new generation of informed, engaged, and effective political leaders in Katsina and beyond.
Gallery: The Rise of Youth Leadership in Katsina
