By The Gulf Between Nigeria Youths and Civic Responsibility
THE GULF BETWEEN NIGERIAN YOUTHS AND CIVIC RESPONSIBILITY
BY FATHER TIMOTHY ETSENAMHE
In Nigeria, a nation defined by its rich cultural diversity and youthful population, the issue of civic responsibility among young people is increasingly urgent. With approximately 60% of its population under 25 years old, the potential for youth-led initiatives and societal transformation is significant. However, many Nigerian youths demonstrate a troubling lack of civic responsibility, evident in their apathy toward governance, limited participation in community service, lack of political awareness, and general disengagement from political processes.
Civic responsibility encompasses the patriotic and ethical duties of citizens to actively engage in society while considering the interests and concerns of others in the community. This includes both formal legal obligations and voluntary actions that contribute to the welfare and functioning of the community. Civic responsibilities typically involve participating in the electoral process, engaging in community service, advocating for social justice, obeying laws, staying informed about public policies and current events, keeping public spaces clean, and participating in activist initiatives for social good.
Several factors contribute to the observed lack of civic responsibility among Nigerian youths. Many young Nigerians feel disillusioned with the political system, often perceiving it as corrupt and ineffective—a phenomenon known in political science as political disillusionment. This perception breeds a sense of helplessness, leading individuals to believe that their participation would yield no meaningful change.
READ ALSO: https://www.splashnewsng.com/power-of-treating-people-nicely/
Economic challenges, highlighted by high unemployment rates and economic instability, result in many youths focusing on survival rather than civic engagement. The struggle to secure basic needs often overshadows participation in community or political activities. In Nigeria, economic instability and poverty are tools exploited by the political class to blindfold young people, with many becoming political thugs or social media defenders just to make ends meet.
A significant gap in civic education and awareness also contributes to this lack of responsibility. Many young people are inadequately informed about their rights and responsibilities as citizens, which diminishes their motivation to engage in civic activities. The Nigerian education system is often criticized for its lack of synchronization, leaving many unable to afford quality education. This creates a disparity in awareness between the wealthier and poorer segments of the youth population.
The rise of social media and digital entertainment has further exacerbated the decline in traditional forms of civic engagement. While online platforms can facilitate activism, they often encourage passive consumption over active participation. Social media has created a significant distraction within Nigerian society, with many young people preoccupied with gossip, celebrity skits, and photo galleries rather than engaging in civic discourse. This fixation on superficial content detracts from their ability to drive meaningful economic and political change.
The consequences of a lack of civic responsibility are profound. The prevalent complaints about Nigeria’s weak democratic processes stem from this disregard for civic duty. Low voter turnout and minimal participation in civic activities hinder the establishment of responsive governance. Today, Nigeria grapples with economic instability and insecurity, which are not only products of poor governance but also of a collective failure in civic responsibility.
To bridge the civic responsibility gap among Nigerian youths, enhanced civic education is crucial. Integrating civic education into school curricula can empower young people with knowledge about their rights and responsibilities, fostering a sense of duty toward their communities. Encouraging youth-led initiatives can enhance their sense of ownership and responsibility. Supporting organizations focused on social change can also have a positive impact.
Additionally, leveraging technology and social media to promote civic engagement can help reach a wider audience. Campaigns that encourage participation in elections and community service can harness the power of technology for positive change. Creating economic opportunities can enable young people to engage more actively in civic responsibilities, shifting their focus from mere survival to active citizenship.
The lack of civic responsibility among Nigerian youths is a multifaceted issue that requires a collective effort to address. By fostering a culture of civic engagement, empowering young people through education and opportunities, and leveraging technology, Nigeria can unlock the potential of its youthful population. Encouraging a sense of civic duty is not only beneficial for individuals but is crucial for the country’s overall progress and stability. Engaging youth in civic responsibilities will empower them and contribute to building a more vibrant and democratic society.
