Assessment of the Not Too Young To Run Act and Youth Political Participation in Nigeria between 2019-2023 General Elections

Abstract

Since the inception of the fourth republic in 1999, Nigerian youths have been relegated to the background in terms of elective and appointive political positions. Though, they constitute 52% of registered voters only 5% occupy elective positions. The paper examined Not Too Young to Run Acts and Youths Political Participation in Nigeria 2019-2023 General Election. The paper is a time series that relies on a qualitative method of data collection. The data collected was analyzed using content analysis. The research was guided by this research question; - 1) has the Not Too Young to Run Act enhanced youth political participation in Nigeria? The research is anchored on Group theory as a theoretical framework of analysis. The theory focuses on the collectivities of individuals who interact in pursuance of common political goals. The theory argues that interest is the primary propelling force and that every action is based upon the sharing of interest. The work revealed that the socio-economic conditions and bad governance in Nigeria reinvigorated the political consciousness of youths to participate actively in politics. The research concludes and recommends that youths should be economically empowered through job creation, education, and an enabling environment for them to participate more in politics.