Nigeria's democracy has survived for over two decades, yet many young people are increasingly questioning whether it is truly working for them. While democracy promises participation, representation, and opportunities for all citizens, a growing number of Nigerian youths feel disconnected from the system. One reason is the high rate of unemployment and underemployment. Many young graduates spend years searching for meaningful work despite obtaining qualifications and skills. When economic opportunities remain limited, it becomes difficult for young people to see the benefits of democratic governance. Another factor is the perception that political leaders often fail to address the concerns of ordinary citizens. Issues such as insecurity, poor infrastructure, rising living costs, and inadequate public services continue to affect millions of Nigerians. Many youths feel that their voices are heard during election campaigns but ignored after elections are won. Electoral controversies and allegations of irregularities have also contributed to frustration. Some young voters question whether their votes truly influence political outcomes. When confidence in electoral processes declines, trust in democracy itself can suffer. In addition, many young Nigerians feel excluded from leadership and decision-making positions. Although youths make up a significant portion of the population, political power often remains concentrated among older generations. This can create a sense of alienation and discourage active participation. However, losing faith in democracy carries its own risks. Democracy remains one of the few systems that allows citizens to pursue change through peaceful participation, advocacy, voting, and civic engagement. Rather than withdrawing completely, young people can help strengthen democracy by staying informed, organising responsibly, and demanding greater accountability from leaders. As Nigeria marks Democracy Day, the challenge is not only to preserve democratic rule but also to ensure that young citizens can see real opportunities, meaningful representation, and tangible progress within the system.
