The Initiative for a Better and Brighter Nigeria has encouraged women and young people to become more involved in Nigeria’s political activities, stressing that their participation is essential for strengthening democracy ahead of the 2027 Nigerian general elections.
The appeal was made during a one-day political sensitisation programme held in Sokoto on Saturday with the theme, “Women and Youth Involvement in Politics: A Panacea for Democratic Growth.”
In his welcome address, the Chairman of the organisation, Ibrahim Wakili, explained that the group was founded and developed by its Global Leader, Isa El-Buba, and has now expanded to all the 36 states of the federation.
Wakili said the programme was organised to educate the public and motivate citizens to make informed political choices as the nation prepares for the next general elections.
“The future of our democracy depends greatly on the level of involvement of women and youths who constitute a significant segment of our society,” he said.
He added that the organisation would continue mobilising citizens and guiding them toward credible political decisions.
“As an organisation, we will carefully study individuals aspiring for political offices, examine their track records and guide our supporters toward making credible choices,” Wakili said.
He also praised members of the group in Sokoto State for their dedication and commitment to the vision of a better Nigeria.
“Our founder has continued to demonstrate tireless dedication and sacrifice, working day and night to ensure that the vision of a better and brighter Nigeria becomes a reality,” he added.
Wakili further explained that participants at the programme were selected because of their influence within their respective communities.
“They have the strength and capacity to mobilise thousands of people and guide them toward making the right political decisions,” he noted.
In his opening remarks, the organisation’s coordinator, Okechukwu Okoh, said the gathering aimed to inspire hope among citizens and assure them that national transformation was achievable through commitment and shared responsibility.
“We want to reassure Nigerians that with commitment and determination, a new Nigeria is possible,” he said.
Delivering the keynote address, Sarafa Ogundiya of the Department of Political Science at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, urged Christian youths to become actively involved in electoral processes, noting that civic engagement aligns with biblical teachings.
“Political participation is not unbiblical. Christian youths should not shy away from participating in electoral activities and leadership processes,” he said.
Ogundiya pointed out that women represent between 49 and 49.6 per cent of Nigeria’s population, while youths make up about 35 per cent, giving them significant numerical strength to influence political leadership.
He encouraged them to engage in politics by registering as voters, participating in community activities, joining political parties and advocating good governance.
The professor also identified factors that often motivate individuals to enter politics, including the pursuit of power, social relevance and economic opportunities.
However, he highlighted major challenges limiting the participation of women and youths in politics, such as money politics, political thuggery, godfatherism and manipulation.
Ogundiya also advised churches to avoid direct participation in partisan politics while encouraging members to take part responsibly in democratic processes.
“Churches should not directly participate in politics, but they should encourage members to register as voters, participate in elections and monitor the process to ensure transparency and fairness,” he said.
In his remarks, the Sokoto State Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Kayode Moses James, commended the organisation for organising the sensitisation programme.
“This kind of enlightenment is necessary at a time when many youths are losing interest in political participation,” he said, urging Christian youths to remain actively engaged in politics.
Also speaking on behalf of traditional rulers present at the event, the Eze Ndigbo of Sokoto, Eze Tobi Gbaghara, also known as the Sarkin Igbo III of the state, encouraged youths to participate in politics according to their capacity.
He described the initiative as timely and capable of positively influencing the political future of Christian youths and women in Nigeria.
