By Nathaniel Zacchaeus, Abuja
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has advised young Nigerians to participate in democracy with a view to becoming better politicians in the future.
Abbas gave the admonition in Abuja yesterday at the Grand Finale of the National Quiz Competition on Legislature and Democracy organised by the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS).
Speaking on the importance of youth participation in democracy, the speaker stressed the need for students to embrace leadership roles in addition to politics.
He said, “The future of Nigeria lies in your hands. You are the leaders of tomorrow, but you are also the leaders of Today.
“As young people, it is essential that you become well-versed in the principles of democracy, governance, and nation-building.
“Through platforms like this, we seek to encourage you to pursue leadership roles, not just in politics, but in every sector of society, knowing that your voice matters and that you can effect positive change.
“I urge all of you, irrespective of where you finish in this competition, to carry the lessons you have learned. Your engagement with democracy is not a one-time event but a lifelong journey.
“Whether you become lawmakers, educators, entrepreneurs, or activists, understanding how the legislature and democracy work will guide your decisions and actions.”
For democracy to function effectively, citizens must understand its processes and each institution’s role.
He described the Quiz Competition as an innovative and impactful way to engage young Nigerians in understanding the vital role of the legislature in our democracy.
Abbas said the competition would provide secondary school students with the opportunity to deepen their knowledge of governance and the legislative process,
The Director-General of NILDS, Prof Abubakar Suleiman, said the broad objective of the competition was to provide continued education on the legislature and broaden the knowledge of students and youths on its history, practice, and procedure.
He also said it would encourage a deeper understanding of civic and democratic governance in Nigeria.
He said, “The competition is also targeted at stimulating the interest of young students in politics and making them more proactive in matters relating to the legislature and democracy.”
The competition, which began at the state level, reached its grand finale in Abuja yesterday, with participants from all six geopolitical zones of our country.
Enitona High School, Port Harcourt, Rivers State (South-South) came first with 70 points, while School for the Gifted, Gwagwalada, FCT. (North Central) was second with 65 points
Bishop Otubelu Juniorate, Trans-Ekulu, in Enugu State (South-East), polled 55 points for third place.
