Inside the Movement Empowering Young Nigerians to Build the Nation
How Democracy Builders is Igniting Civic Engagement
Educating young Nigerians, especially Generation Z (Gen Z), about their roles in nation-building politics is more than just providing information; it is a matter of experiential learning and practical action. The Democracy Builders group applied this when we conducted a series of workshops at schools, themed “Mobilize, Organize, and Act.” We visited Aje Comprehensive Junior High School and the University of Abuja on Thursday, June 26, and Lagos City College and Aje Comprehensive Senior High School on Friday, June 27, 2025. The training enhanced students’ awareness of their civic duty and the importance of ongoing engagement.
Secondary School and University Workshop Highlights
The secondary school sessions featured interactive discussions, practical training, student role-plays, and the launch of Civic Clubs to sustain the momentum. The students reported an increased understanding of civic engagement and resolved to participate locally. Many of them signed up to become part of the Civic Clubs to continue discussing civic rights and responsibilities, build capacity for civic action, engage local leaders, and solve community challenges.
At the University of Abuja workshop, held in collaboration with the National Association of Social Science Students (NASSS), every attendee left with a renewed conviction on why Gen Zs must make their voice heard effectively. From charges and inspiring stories by members of the Democracy Builders team to an energizing panel discussion, and addressing relevant questions practically, it was a momentous event.
We agreed that citizens can accomplish great things from a small place, for instance, by creating content to enlighten audiences and that one can make their voice heard without resorting to insults and threats. We also discussed that, beyond partisan and religious politics, we should focus on identifying and supporting candidates who embody the 3Cs of governance: Character, Competence, and Capacity.
Furthermore, more women need to participate in politics, given the current 4% representation in the House of Representatives. The session concluded with the assertion that doing the same things and expecting different results will be recycling our pain as a nation. The Department of Social Sciences students committed to taking action through a system of sustainability and a community to keep the conversation going, ensuring that the apathy they once had towards politics changes into actionable participation.
Key Takeaways from the “From Apathy to Action” Webinar
In addition to the physical training sessions, we hosted an X Space webinar on Monday, June 23, 2025, themed “From Apathy to Action: Practical Tools for Nation-Builders.” Speaking at the webinar were the Executive Director of the Electoral College, Kunle Lawal, the Founder of Learn Politics, Victoria Olabisi and members of the Democracy Builders team. The Dialogue was a stirring conversation, where we explored the root causes of apathy, why everyone must work to build Nigeria, not act against it, and how every intentional action counts, citing examples of citizen-led accountability and enlightenment tools.
We also discussed the criticality of teaching civic education and history in schools, practical ways for young people to organize together and drive change, and the power of critical masses joining political parties to reform systems from within. The speakers debunked misconceptions about civic engagement and emphasized the need for widespread, accurate political knowledge, both from the citizens’ and leaders’ sides. They suggested strategies to reach and mobilize people from all backgrounds through institutional education reform and targeted media outreach. The speakers emphasized the significance of committing to nation-building for the long term despite challenges and shared ways to ensure that representatives serve their communities effectively.
The Vision for Civic Engagement in NigeriaDemocracy Builders Group is a non-partisan, nonprofit civic engagement initiative that promotes civic responsibility, democratic participation, and improved governance processes for a Nigeria that serves all its citizens. It was conceived as a Capstone Project by the Civic Enlightenment and Engagement Group of 2025 SPPG students to equip young Nigerians with the knowledge, values, and skills necessary to make meaningful contributions to nation-building. The initiative aims to increase civic engagement through workshops and interest in community development through civic clubs, boost civic participation through civic education resources, online discussions, and relevant digital content. Access civic education guides at http://democracybuilders.ng/media/.