WRITER: Tofunmi Akinseye
In the face of challenges and struggles, hope has always served as a beacon of light, guiding nations towards progress and transformation. Nigeria, a vibrant nation with a youthful population, is now embarking on a journey of #RenewedHope—a new dispensation that holds immense promise for its youth.
In Nigeria, where the youth population comprises a significant portion of the nation, there is a palpable sense of hope and aspiration for a new democratic era.
The average Nigerian youth, armed with dreams and ambitions, seeks meaningful changes that will positively impact their lives and shape a brighter future.
With renewed hope, they yearn for specific transformations in various aspects of their lives and society at large. Let’s delve into what the average Nigerian youth seeks from this new democratic era.
1. A Time of Transformation:
The concept of #RenewedHope represents a significant shift in the political, economic, and social landscape of Nigeria.
With a focus on good governance, transparency, and inclusivity, this new dispensation must create an environment conducive to growth and development, especially for the youth—the backbone of the nation.
2. Empowering the Youth:
At the heart of #RenewedHope is the empowerment of Nigerian youth. Recognizing their immense potential, the new dispensation must provide access to quality education, vocational training, and skill development opportunities.
This investment in the youth is crucial for fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic advancement.
3. Unleashing Potential:
Nigeria’s youth population is a dynamic force brimming with talent, creativity, and ambition. The #RenewedHope must offer them a platform to thrive, encouraging them to pursue their dreams, unleash their potential, and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s growth. This, in turn, can fuel a positive cycle of progress and prosperity.
4. Employment and Entrepreneurship:
One of the pressing concerns for Nigerian youth is the lack of employment opportunities. The new dispensation must underline the importance of job creation, promoting a conducive business environment and supporting entrepreneurship. By fostering a culture of innovation and providing necessary resources, the youth can become drivers of economic growth and job creators themselves.
5. Youth Involvement in Governance:
#RenewedHope recognizes the critical role of youth in shaping the nation’s future. It emphasizes their inclusion and participation in decision-making processes, policy formulation, and governance. By giving the youth a voice and enabling their active involvement, the new dispensation must ensure their perspectives are heard and their aspirations are addressed.
6. Harnessing Technology and Innovation:
In an increasingly digital world, #RenewedHope acknowledges the power of technology and innovation. It encourages the youth to embrace digital literacy, explore emerging technologies, and leverage them to drive societal progress. This emphasis on technology creates avenues for the youth to access information, engage in online entrepreneurship, and contribute to Nigeria’s digital transformation.
7 Quality Education and Skills Development:
The average Nigerian youth desires a revamped educational system that provides quality education, equips them with relevant skills, and prepares them for the challenges of the modern world. They hope for improved infrastructure, well-trained teachers, updated curricula, and increased access to educational opportunities, ensuring that every youth has a fair chance to succeed.
8 Good Governance and Accountability:
The average Nigerian youth seeks transparent, accountable, and participatory governance. They desire leaders who prioritize the welfare of the people, embrace inclusivity, and demonstrate integrity.
They yearn for effective institutions that tackle corruption, ensure equal opportunities, and protect human rights. By fostering good governance practices, the new democratic era can restore the faith of Nigerian youth in the system and empower them to actively engage in nation-building.
9 Social Justice and Equality:
Nigerian youth aspire to live in a society that upholds social justice and equality for all. They seek an end to discrimination based on ethnicity, religion, or socioeconomic status.
They yearn for an inclusive society where everyone has equal access to resources, opportunities, and social services. By promoting inclusivity and addressing systemic inequalities, the new democratic era can create a fair and just society that embraces diversity and empowers every Nigerian youth.
10 Improved Infrastructure and Basic Amenities:
The average Nigerian youth hopes for improved infrastructure that enhances their quality of life. Access to reliable electricity, clean water, affordable housing, efficient transportation systems, and modern healthcare facilities are among their priorities. Adequate infrastructure investment will not only improve living conditions but also foster economic growth and development, creating a conducive environment for Nigerian youth to thrive.
11 Civic Participation and Youth Empowerment:
Nigerian youth are eager to actively participate in decision-making processes and have their voices heard. They seek platforms for civic engagement, where their ideas, concerns, and aspirations can shape policies and influence change. Youth empowerment programs that provide training, mentorship, and funding for entrepreneurship are also crucial in nurturing the potential of Nigerian youth and fostering a culture of innovation and creativity.
In a country as vibrant and diverse as Nigeria, the youth population holds tremendous potential for driving positive change and shaping the future. However, to fully harness this potential, it is crucial to provide them with a renewed sense of hope and create an environment that fosters their development.
The #RenewedHope movement has emerged as a catalyst, igniting optimism and generating opportunities for Nigeria’s youth, and as Nigeria enters a new democratic era, it is essential to address the expectations and aspirations of its youth. By actively engaging the youth in the democratic process, fostering transparency and accountability, creating economic opportunities, prioritizing quality education and skills development, and ensuring security and social welfare, Nigeria can renew hope and trust in its governance among its youth population.
The #RenewedHope campaign must be committed to building a brighter future for Nigerian youths, where their voices are heard, their dreams are nurtured, and their potential is unleashed. Together, let us work towards a democratic era that empowers and uplifts the aspirations of Nigerian youth.
About the writer
Tofunmi Akinseye, CEO and Publisher of Savvy Media Africa, is a highly accomplished professional in the media and communications field. With a strong background in copywriting and digital marketing, she brings valuable expertise to her role. Despite establishing her PR company just a year ago, Tofunmi has already achieved remarkable success by working with renowned brands such as Filmhouse Cinemas, leading a highly successful campaign for the West African Premiere of Black Panther.
Beyond her professional achievements, Tofunmi is deeply committed to empowering young people and creating opportunities for their success. Through the Savvy Media Edtech Initiative, she has empowered over 500 youths by equipping them with essential digital skills needed in today’s world. Collaborating with influential organizations like Google, Facebook, and StartWebAfrica, Tofunmi actively pursues her vision of fostering growth and development.
Under Tofunmi’s leadership, Savvy Media Africa’s magazine has become a platform that features notable personalities, including renowned figures from the entertainment industry. By showcasing their stories and talents, Tofunmi aims to highlight the immense potential that exists within individuals. With her unwavering belief in investing in human potential, Tofunmi Akinseye continues to empower young individuals and drive positive change in the media industry. Her remarkable journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs, illustrating the transformative power of passion and dedication.