Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu: Engaging and Empowering the Next Generation

Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu shared on LinkedIn:

“Engaging and Empowering the Next Generation.

As of August 1, 2024, the population of Nigeria stands at just under 230 million. The youth, who make up 70% of the population, a substantial 160 million, play a crucial role in shaping the nation’s future. Their energy and perspectives, drives meaningful change, and ensures that governance reflects the diverse needs of society.

In light of this, and of course recent agitations in Nigeria, I attended a “Youth in Civic Action” workshop organized by I AM CHANGE (IAC), a nonprofit organization, that empowers young Nigerians to participate actively in civic action and democratic engagement.

I’m passionate about conversations that energize and educate young people to make a positive impact as active citizens in their communities. Through such interactive and engaging sessions, we can explore the significance of youth participation in democracy and identify practical strategies to overcome challenges.

Several factors impede youth participation in politics and civic actions in Nigeria, beginning from less knowledge, skills, and tools to effectively advocate for their priorities and engage in impactful digital campaigns extending to poverty and unemployment. As of 2023, The World Bank estimates that about 38.9% of Nigerians live in poverty, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable solutions.

The digital age has revolutionized activism and Social media platforms provide unprecedented opportunities for youth to connect, organize, and advocate for their causes. Several resource persons like Mr Faruk Ibrahim, Africa Program Coordinator at Yiaga Africa, and Mukhtar Halilu Modibbo, Secretary general of Follow the Money, used the workshop by IAC to train 200 successful applicants in digital campaign strategies and advocacy fundamentals

Participants at the IAC workshop were also provided with comprehensive civic education, which covered methods of peaceful engagement. A 2022 study by Afrobarometer revealed that only 45% of Nigerian youth are aware of basic democratic principles, as laid out in the constitution, indicating a significant gap in civic literacy. Addressing this gap, through targeted educational programs can enhance their understanding and national peace and stability.

I believe in empowering the youth as active citizens, critical thinkers, and effective advocates will equip them with the valuables of constructive engagement rather than resorting to violence. Their passion, and innovative ideas are the keys to unlocking a brighter tomorrow.

The program was a resounding achievement, and I congratulate the founder, Ms Hafsatu Shinkafi, a passionate change advocate, her team, donors, and speakers, for adopting this approach, particularly during this period when it can be easy to misguide our younger ones.”

Source: Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu/LinkedIn

Her Excellency Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu is the First Lady of Kebbi State, a global cancer advocate, a pediatrician, a UICC Board Member,  Founder of the Medicaid Cancer Foundation, and the Chairperson of First Ladies Against Cancer (FLAC). Dr Bagudu is working with the state ministries of health, education, and women affairs to implement programs to sustainably improve menstrual hygiene, girl-child education, economic empowerment of women, and put an end to gender-based violence. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu is a member of the Editorial Board of OncoDaily.