Young Nigerians would have a strong say in the outcome of the 2023 general election as they form a majority of the voting population due to recent statistics from INEC as such young people have a role to play in ensuring Peaceful, free, fair, and credible elections in Nigeria.
These were the generated talking points as Bege Foundation hosted its November edition of the youth townhall ‘Gaskiya Platform’ in partnership with Peace Direct through LEGASI P4P held on Thursday, 24th 2022 at the Augustinian training center, state low-cost in Jos, Plateau state.
Keynote speaker, Dr Yakubu Joseph while speaking on the topic ‘Dare To Hope’ said that the situation in the country was so bad as we are suffering as a result of the failed promises made by leaders with most of the basic needs, including education, jobs, roads, electricity, water, and other necessities beyond reach for the common man.
He urged youths to ‘Dare to Hope” and such hope should come with being unhappy about the current situation in the country and having the courage to do something that will create a change for the better.
Dr Yakubu said, “Having hope is to be angry and have courage, however, the anger should not be for young people to become a nuisance, make trouble, or burn tyres but the anger of feeling dissatisfied and not being comfortable with the way things are because they are not opposed to be so”.
“Courage to go against the odds, despite all the odds, young people must strive to make a difference to change that situation, as youths must begin to ask the critical question; how do I change the situation of Nigeria?”
“The elections coming in 2023 present a unique opportunity for youths to bring their anger and courage to the polls to elect leaders that will work for us, for the social good and not for their personal interest, not for the interest of their ethnic group or religious group.” He further stated
The Townhall also featured discussions from other panelists including Mrs. Yil Fomwul Gonsum and Mr Nsunwara Victor who went on to speak on the role of Youth in curbing electoral violence and promoting, free, fair and credible elections in the 2023 elections.
They admonished youths to shun electoral violence before, during and after the 2023 general elections and realize their strength in numbers as they can make it count in the 2023 elections.
Team Lead, Bege Foundation, Mr. Kenneth Attah, earlier mentioned that the foundation established the platform in order to tackle issues affecting youths from various communities as youths at the monthly townhall were drawn from various communities within Plateau State.
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