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Youth in Nigeria: Agitations, Accountability, and the Urgent Need for Strategic Rethinking

 

Youth in Nigeria: Agitations, Accountability, and the Urgent Need for Strategic Rethinking

Author: Dr. Nana Akaeze and Dr. Christian O. Akaeze

Abstract

Nigerian youths have become more vocal and active in recent years. They now use social media and other platforms to speak up against bad leadership and failed systems. This is a positive change because many generations before now remained silent. However, some of today’s youths are taking the wrong path. Instead of promoting unity, they are spreading hate, division, tribalism, and even violence. Some are now calling for the breakup of Nigeria, believing that forming new nations will solve our problems. This article explains why that approach is harmful and how a better solution is to adopt regional governance within a united Nigeria. It also highlights how youths must take responsibility, embrace peaceful and innovative strategies, and focus on building a better country for all.

Introduction: Youths Are Now Speaking Up

Witnessing the current generation of Nigerian youths speaking out with confidence is encouraging. Unlike previous generations, they are unafraid to challenge authority, expose corruption, and demand systemic change. Through the strategic use of social media, they have brought numerous national issues to the forefront (Otive-Igbuzor, 2024).

Regarding mobilization, recent youth movements such as #EndSARS and #NotTooYoungToRun spread organically via social platforms and word of mouth. Influential celebrities like Blaqboi Victor, Falz, and Runtown played pivotal roles by raising awareness and rallying their followers, while others mobilized their peers at the grassroots level (Otive-Igbuzor, 2024). This digital strategy starkly contrasts with the student movements of the 1980s and 1990s, which lacked access to such tools due to the era's technological limitations (Otive-Igbuzor, 2024).

Social media amplified these movements' momentum and significantly shaped their messaging and public engagement. The framing of their causes transitioned from online discourse into mainstream national conversations (Otive-Igbuzor, 2024). In a country where older generations often choose silence, this new wave of assertiveness from the youth is genuinely refreshing.

Nigeria’s current political challenges can be linked to a culture of silence and non-engagement that characterized previous generations. This prolonged passivity allowed political figures like Olusegun Obasanjo to remain influential for over six decades. As Angerbrandt and Themnér (2021) observe, Obasanjo’s dominance in Nigerian politics was further demonstrated by his behind-the-scenes role in attempting to amend the constitution to permit a third presidential term—an effort widely believed to have been orchestrated by him, even though he never publicly admitted his intentions. Although the Senate rejected the constitutional amendment, Obasanjo leveraged control over the ruling party and electoral institutions to ensure he handpicked his successor (Schedler, 2002).

The former president (Obasanjo)’s later statements reveal a deliberate effort to correct what he perceived as past leadership selection mistakes. Reflecting on the 1979 transition, Obasanjo stated that his government had failed to properly vet who would succeed them, a misstep he claimed to have rectified (Searcey & Akinwotu, 2018). This “correction” resulted in the selection of Umaru Yar’Adua, the brother of his former Chief of Staff, as the presidential candidate. Yar’Adua's eventual landslide victory occurred amid an election marred by widespread irregularities and credibility concerns (Siollun, 2013). Obasanjo’s actions illustrate how entrenched political figures have manipulated institutions and succession processes, further entrenched elite dominance and contributed to Nigeria’s ongoing democratic fragility. Likewise, Atiku Abubakar continues to run for president despite long-standing accusations of corruption (Olukos, 2019). Youths are now saying, “Enough is enough,” which is good. However, while the voice is loud, the direction is not always correct.

The Problem: Good Energy, Wrong Direction

Over time, many Nigerian youths have channeled their activism into negative and divisive behaviors, including cyberbullying and tribal attacks. Instead of serving as a tool for civic engagement and truth, social media has increasingly become a platform for spreading misinformation and deepening political polarization in the country (Akindutire & Oluwatosin, 2023). As Nwozor et al. (2022) observed, political supporters and segments of the electorate widely disseminated hate speech during the 2019 presidential campaigns, often resorting to threats and insults rather than promoting their candidates with facts and constructive dialogue.

During recent elections, instead of advancing political discourse with ideas and informed debate, some individuals chose to weaponize social media to attack and intimidate fellow citizens. Unfortunately, this behavior did not stop after the elections. Rather than reflecting on the electoral experience and using it as a foundation for growth and understanding, many turned their frustration and anger toward others, further deepening divisions.

Even more troubling is the growing frequency of calls for Nigeria’s disintegration. Some youth voices now advocate splitting the country into smaller entities, such as Biafra or Oduduwa. For example, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), led by Nnamdi Kanu, represents a separatist movement from the southeastern region of Nigeria, calling for the creation of a sovereign Biafran state (Ojo & Lamidi, 2022). While such sentiments may offer a quick solution to Nigeria’s complex problems, fragmentation is unlikely to provide the lasting peace and equity many hope for.

It is important to acknowledge that confident youth leaders initially emerged with commendable courage, fresh ideas, and a clear commitment to justice. However, as time passed, some of these figures drifted from principled advocacy toward increasingly combative and counterproductive methods. Omoyele Sowore once celebrated for his fearless journalism and civic activism, has recently adopted a confrontational tone that borders on militancy. Similarly, digital influencer The Very Dark Black Man, once recognized for spotlighting social injustice and exposing corporate irresponsibility, has allowed his platform to become an outlet for unchecked rage, emotional outbursts, and provocative commentary.

What makes this shift particularly disheartening is the level of hope and trust the youth once invested in these individuals. Many Nigerians, especially youth, applauded them and viewed them as emerging leaders capable of driving national transformation. Instead of nurturing that trust and evolving into disciplined role models, they have often mirrored the same recklessness, intolerance, and self-righteousness patterns that have long hindered Nigeria’s leadership landscape.

True leadership does not thrive on noise, personal attacks, antagonism, or egoism. It is built on wisdom, patience, responsibility, and a clear vision for sustainable change. By consistently choosing confrontation over constructive engagement, these voices risk turning their platforms into distractions rather than instruments for meaningful reform. Nigeria does not need more agitators; it needs builders and leaders who will learn from past mistakes for a better tomorrow for all. Those who once inspired hope must now make a crucial choice: whether they will be remembered as part of the solution or as contributors to the chaos.

Why Division Is Not the Answer

Dividing Nigeria is not a solution to its longstanding challenges. Okoro (2023) observed that socio-political restructuring alone will not resolve deep-rooted issues such as ethnic tensions, religious politics, and bigotry. The concern is that those currently mismanaging the nation would likely assume leadership roles in any new breakaway states, thereby perpetuating the same governance patterns. Bolarinwa and Osuji (2022) describe Nigeria’s political elite as individuals who have occupied or continue to occupy influential positions across political, economic, and social institutions. According to Ogbeide and Aghahowa (2005, p. 222), these elites are responsible for policy decisions that significantly affect the life chances of ordinary Nigerians. In essence, restructuring without addressing the core leadership dynamics may result in a change of names, while injustice and corruption persist under different symbols and banners.

Nigeria’s complex multicultural landscape further complicates the discourse. The three major ethnic groups—the Hausa-Fulani, Igbo, and Yoruba—dominate, while various minority ethnic communities exist across the country's northern and southern regions (Galadima, 2010, p. 13). In such a diverse society, advantages often accrue to groups with larger populations, earlier access to colonial systems, or greater educational advancement. These disparities naturally fuel competition and intensify the struggle for equitable access to national resources, political offices, and social privileges—a challenge that has existed since independence in 1960 (Galadima, 2010, p. 13). As Rindap and Mari (2014) explain, ethnic minorities have continually fought for inclusion, fairness, and equal opportunity in the distribution of the nation’s wealth and influence.

Compounding these issues is the rise in youth violence, which threatens not only Nigeria’s internal unity but also its economic stability and regional peace across West Africa (Bisina, 2021). Ethnic minorities are particularly anxious, given the growing aggression of some youth movements. There is a widespread fear that, in the event of national disintegration, minority groups might face even greater marginalization within the newly formed nations.

Oko (1998) notes that the root of Nigeria’s crisis lies not in its unity but in deeper systemic problems such as the over-centralization of power, the absence of national consensus, and the fear of domination by one group over others. In this context, a breakup may not bring the peace many expect. Instead, it risks creating new fear, division, and instability. As Veenendaal and Demarest (2020) argue, the fundamental issue is not national unity itself, but the mechanisms through which power and resources are distributed. Nigeria's true path toward sustainable peace and inclusive governance is addressing this imbalance.

A Smarter Solution: Regional Governance Within One Nigeria

Nigeria's core challenge is not disunity but the urgent need for restructuring. This restructuring involves creating regional governments with greater autonomy over their resources, development goals, and administrative operations, while maintaining the integrity of a united nation.

Regional government refers to a governance system where elected or appointed officials manage the affairs of a specific region. These governments address local concerns, deliver essential public services, and introduce policies that reflect the region’s unique priorities. Although functioning within the boundaries of a national constitution, regional governments operate above local government authorities and are better positioned to respond to regional dynamics effectively.

 

Historically, Nigeria embraced regional governance during the colonial and immediate post-colonial periods. At that time, the country was divided into three prominent political regions: Northern, Western, and Eastern. A Premier led each region and exercised significant control over its internal affairs. This system remained in place from 1914 until Nigeria achieved independence in 1960 and played a vital role in shaping the early structure of the Nigerian federation (Yusuf, 2024). Nigeria is divided into six geopolitical zones: North Central, Northeast, Northwest, Southwest, Southeast, and South-South. These zones comprise 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), further broken into 774 local government areas.

 

With over 500 languages and more than 400 ethnic groups, Nigeria is one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world. The current geopolitical framework was introduced during General Sani Abacha’s regime in 1993. However, the foundation for regional governance predates this era and is embedded in Nigeria’s earlier three-region federal structure (Yusuf, 2024). Reviving and modernizing a regional governance model—grounded in historical precedent—offers a balanced and intelligent pathway for managing Nigeria’s vast ethnic, cultural, and economic diversity. It would allow each region to thrive on its strengths, while remaining united under a national identity. More importantly, addressing the restructuring issue without delay is critical. Failure to act may exacerbate existing grievances, fuel separatist sentiments, and potentially lead to widespread civil unrest (Jooji, 2019).

Benefits of Regional Governance:

Regional governance offers several important benefits for a diverse country like Nigeria. First, each region can manage its natural resources, economy, education, and culture. This allows regions to make decisions that best suit their local needs and priorities. Second, regional governance increases accountability. Local leaders can no longer blame the federal government for every problem—they are directly responsible for what happens in their region, encouraging better leadership.

Third, this system can help reduce tribal and ethnic tensions. When people have more control over their affairs, they feel more included and respected, even while remaining part of a united Nigeria. Fourth, regional governance encourages healthy competition. When empowered, regions often strive to perform better than others, promoting innovation, growth, and development across the country. Finally, it provides stronger protection for minorities. Instead of breaking Nigeria into smaller countries where some groups might face discrimination or oppression, regional governance allows everyone to have a voice while still being part of one nation.

1. Enhancing Policy Responsiveness and Regional Development

Regional governance empowers regions to design and implement place-based development strategies. Because regional authorities are closer to local realities, they are better positioned to coordinate sectoral policies, leverage local assets, and facilitate meaningful dialogue across levels of government and stakeholders, including civil society and private enterprises (OECD, 2016).

2. Protecting Cultural and Ethnic Diversity

One of the motivations for regional governance is to preserve the unique historical, cultural, ethnic, or linguistic identities of different territories. Regions with strong cultural identities, such as indigenous populations or historically autonomous communities, can use regional structures to safeguard and promote their heritage while participating in national development (OECD, 2016).

3. Improving Governance Efficiency

Regional governance helps streamline the allocation of responsibilities across government levels, reducing policy overlaps and fragmentation. By clarifying administrative roles and reducing duplication, regional reforms can lead to more efficient delivery of public services and better use of resources (OECD, 2016).

4. Strengthening Democratic Accountability

Regional governance can improve democratic participation by establishing directly elected regional bodies. These institutions enhance transparency, accountability, and local ownership of public decisions, contributing to a more inclusive and representative governance system (OECD, 2016).

5. Increasing Strategic and Fiscal Capacity

Regions with devolved authority often possess greater fiscal capacity and decision-making autonomy. This allows them to manage infrastructure better, deliver public services at scale, and pursue economic development tailored to regional needs. Federal countries demonstrate higher regional spending—up to 35.2% of total public expenditure—compared to only 8.7% in unitary states, reflecting this increased capacity (OECD, 2016).

Examples from Other Countries

Examples from Other Countries

Several countries have effectively embraced regional or federal systems to manage diversity, enhance governance, and maintain national unity.

Germany operates a federal system in which state governments manage local affairs such as education and public administration, while the national government handles matter like defense and foreign policy. The country’s governance is built on cooperative federalism, power sharing, and the autonomy of its federal states. Administrative reforms follow a bottom-up, incremental model, and civil society organizations actively participate in policy evaluation and dialogue with government institutions (Ayhan & Lahdili, 2022).

Switzerland offers a unique example of regional governance rooted in the sovereignty of its cantons. Each canton exercises independent control over key sectors, including education, healthcare, and policing. Unlike centralized states, Switzerland’s unity is not based on ethnicity or language, but on democratic engagement and voluntary association among cantons. Political identity in Switzerland is more closely aligned with regional affiliation than linguistic or ethnic divisions. Multilingual regions like Valais and Ticino chose inclusion in the confederation for broader political participation, illustrating how decentralized governance can support cohesion in a diverse society (Schoch, 2000).

Canada also exemplifies strong regional governance. Its provinces control essential services such as healthcare, education, and transportation, making it one of the most decentralized federal systems globally. Despite cultural and linguistic tensions—especially between English-speaking Canada and French-speaking Quebec—the country has maintained unity through constitutional negotiations and provincial autonomy. While challenges persist, especially around interprovincial economic integration and cultural identity, Canada demonstrates that effective regional governance can accommodate diverse interests and reduce national tensions (Fry, 1985).

These case studies show that decentralization, through federalism or regional autonomy, can promote national stability, empower local decision-making, and protect cultural diversity. Nigeria, with its ethnic and regional complexity, can draw valuable lessons from these models to restructure its governance in a way that strengthens unity while respecting local autonomy.

The Role of Youths in Cultism and Criminal Activities

Many young Nigerians have tragically redirected their energy and talents into destructive paths in recent years. One of the most concerning trends is their involvement in cult groups and student fraternities that have transformed into violent organizations. Founded initially as student associations to promote camaraderie and shared ideals, these groups have evolved into networks that perpetrate violence, engage in extortion, and serve as political thugs (Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada, 2009). What began as platforms for social bonding among students has become a source of fear and chaos on university campuses. Over time, these cults have splintered and become rivals, frequently clashing in deadly confrontations. The activities linked to these groups include robbery, rape, extortion, and murder (Pambazuka News, 2009; Aluede & Oniyama, 2009; The Economist, 2008; Kpangban et al., 2008).

Campuses such as the University of Ibadan, the Polytechnic Ibadan, the University of Benin, and Ambrose Alli University have witnessed recurring violence attributed to cult activities (Pambazuka News, 2009). There are also reports that such groups are beginning to infiltrate private universities, though specific examples were not cited (Pambazuka News, 2009). According to The Economist (2008) and the United Nations (2007), student cult violence has resulted in the deaths of hundreds of individuals over the past two decades. Academic researchers Aluede and Oniyama (2009) further confirm that fatalities linked to cult clashes have occurred at several institutions, including Enugu State University, Obafemi Awolowo University, Delta State University, and Federal Polytechnic.

Beyond the universities, these cult groups have extended their influence into broader society. Some youth now fight over symbols, colors, and territorial control, contributing to a climate of fear and instability in Nigerian communities. This destructive behavior undermines national development and threatens the safety of all citizens. True leadership among youth is not measured by force or intimidation. It is demonstrated through integrity, compassion, and service. Nigerian youths must rise above cultism and crime to become protectors, not destroyers, of their generation.

Recommendations: What Nigerian Youths Should Do

If Nigerian youths want to take charge of the future, they must act wisely. Here are some ways they can help shape a better country:

Say No to Division and Violence

Nigeria’s greatest challenge is not its people's diversity, but the division promoted by those who exploit our differences for personal or political gain. Instead of calling for the breakup of Nigeria, we must channel our energy toward building a better, fairer, and more inclusive system within a united nation. Disunity only weakens our potential; unity built on equity and justice strengthens us all. According to Omisore (2018), Nigeria faces several serious challenges to its national unity. One of these is nepotism—a practice where those in power give special favors, jobs, and appointments to their relatives or close friends. This behavior undermines equal opportunity and erodes public trust in leadership.

Another significant issue is a skewed federal system. Nigeria’s federal structure, which was initially designed to provide fair access to opportunities for all regions, is now seen as benefiting only certain areas. This imbalance has created feelings of exclusion among many citizens. Excessive political rivalry also threatens unity. The intense competition for power between North and South politicians has increased regional tensions and made cooperation more difficult.

In addition, terrorism has destabilized parts of the country. Groups like Boko Haram have rejected Western education and promoted religious extremism, especially in the northern region. This has caused fear and division among Nigerians based on religious beliefs. The rise of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), led by Nnamdi Kanu, has also fueled division. IPOB advocates for the secession of the Igbo ethnic group due to perceived marginalization. While their concerns may stem from historical grievances, pushing for separation has increased disunity and political unrest.

Niger Delta militancy is another long-standing issue. The conflict began in the early 1990s when communities like the Ogoni and Ijaw protested environmental degradation and the exploitation of their resources. The unrest has discouraged regional investment and affected the nation’s economic stability. Lastly, the Fulani herdsmen-farmer clashes have further damaged national unity. Violent disputes over land between nomadic cattle herders and local farmers have caused fear and hostility. In response, some states have restricted herders’ movements, further straining ethnic relations (Ngafi, Afolabi, & Welgba, 2022).

These challenges highlight the urgent need for honest dialogue, inclusive policies, and leadership committed to unity and justice for all Nigerians. Nigerians must reject violence and agitation to heal these divisions and embrace dialogue, reform, and inclusive governance. True unity does not mean suppressing differences—it means building a nation where every group sees itself reflected and respected in the national framework. The citizens of Nigeria must say no to division and yes to a peaceful, united country.

Cultism and youth violence have become deeply rooted problems in Rivers State, reflecting deeper issues of social decay and leadership failure (Mezie-Okoye & Durueke, 2020). Violent groups such as Iceland, Greenland, and Deybam operate freely in many communities, spreading fear and silencing opposition. What began in universities has now spread to primary and secondary schools. This rise is fueled mainly by poverty, unemployment, broken homes, and negative peer influence (Akani, 1996).

Research shows that young people from homes without fathers are more likely to join gangs or commit crimes (Harper & McLanahan, 2004). Unfortunately, some politicians use these cult groups as thugs during elections. After elections, the weapons given to them are turned against innocent people (Mezie-Okoye & Durueke, 2020). To stop this dangerous cycle, society must say no to cultism and violence. Families, schools, and faith institutions must work together to guide and support the youth. Nigeria's future depends on it.

Additionally, Nigerian youths should champion the cause of regional governance, advocating for systems that allow local communities to take charge of their development agenda. When people are empowered to make decisions directly affecting their economic growth, education, and infrastructure, they are more likely to build sustainable solutions reflecting local realities. Promoting laws and restructuring policies that grant regions the authority to manage resources and prioritize development goals is essential to achieving equitable national progress (OECD, 2016). In the digital age, social media holds tremendous potential for youth-driven transformation. Instead of fueling tribalism, misinformation, and insults, young Nigerians should leverage social platforms to educate, unite, and influence public policy in positive ways. These platforms can be powerful tools for raising awareness about reform, civic engagement, and cross-cultural understanding (Nwozor et al., 2022).

Nigeria's greatest strength lies in its cultural diversity, and the youth must lead in protecting and celebrating this asset. By respecting different ethnic traditions and fostering mutual understanding, young people can counter the narratives of division and hate. Cultural respect strengthens national unity and paves the way for peaceful coexistence and shared identity among the country's many groups (Ngafi, Afolabi, & Welgba, 2022). Finally, Nigerian youth must build partnerships across regions. Young people from the North, South, East, and West must collaborate on initiatives that transcend ethnic and religious lines. This cooperative spirit will help develop a shared vision for Nigeria’s future rooted in inclusiveness, innovation, and hope.

 

Conclusion: Let’s Rebuild Nigeria, Not Break It

Nigeria faces many serious challenges, but dividing the country is not the answer. True change can happen if we commit to transforming our mindset and actions (Jun & Lee, 2023). Nigerian youths can reshape the nation, not through anger or violence but wisdom, unity, and constructive engagement. Rather than tearing the country down, let us be the generation that builds it up. The future of Nigeria is in the hands of its youth. However, for that future to be bright, young people must be willing to lead with love, strategy, and vision. Let us work toward a nation where every voice is heard, all regions prosper, and every citizen feels included and valued (Herringshaw, 2018). Now is the time to stand together—not as divided groups, but as one people, committed to rebuilding a stronger and united Nigeria.

 

 

 

 

 Cite this blog post as : Akaeze, C., & Akaeze, N. (2025, May 25). Youth in Nigeria: Agitations, accountability, and the urgent need for strategic rethinking. The Awake Voice. https://theawakevoice.blogspot.com/2025/05/youth-in-nigeria-agitations.html

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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  By Dr. Nana Akaeze When pulpits go quiet and the poor are forgotten, the Gospel is not proclaimed—it is betrayed. This is my voice. This is my belief. Because faith was never meant to serve the powerful. It was meant to protect the poor. It was meant to confront injustice—not stay comfortable within it. Today, that silence has found a new disguise — a foreign voice claiming to “save” us from ourselves, and suddenly, everyone is awake. A Nation Awakened by a Stranger In the last few days, a wave of headlines and social media chatter has once again gripped Nigeria—this time sparked by a claim from a foreign political figure who says he wants to “save Christians” in Nigeria. Many cheered. Some prayed. Others panicked. But a few of us paused and asked the most important question: Why did it take a foreign voice to remind Nigeria that its people are dying? For years, Nigerians have been crying—villages burned, farmers slaughtered, students kidnapped, soldiers ambush...