Worried by the increasing level of restiveness among youths in the country, stakeholders have advocated for regular national debates to rekindle the faith and hope of the youth in Nigeria.

According to them, if debates around governance are initiated regularly among youth, it will build their consciousness, and democratic rights and also entrench good practices.

They ventilated in Abuja at a national debate put together by
Yiaga Africa in partnership with the Open Society Foundation for students of Nigerian tertiary educational institutions.

Speaking, Yiaga Executive, Director Samson Itodo disclosed that the idea behind the competition is to inspire the debaters who are young students, to think of solutions to Nigeria’s governance challenges, hence the focus on democracy, governance, and citizenship.

“By having them research and debate into topics in these areas, it has made them knowledgeable about these issues and made them to not just know the problems but also advocate for solutions.

“It is to also inspire other young people who have been listening and will listen to them to also approach Nigeria’s problems from a solution mindset.

“Lastly, it is to deepen the culture of debating in Nigeria which has a direct impact on the quality of our politics and governance.”

In his remarks, NUC Acting Executive Secretary, Mr. Chris Maiyaki informed youths across the country that their voices are crucial in shaping the discourse on the future Nigeria

“Your voices are crucial in shaping the discourse on the future of our country, which we all aspire to build.”

According to him, through national debates, the country will continue to inspire and empower the next generation of leaders who will drive Nigeria towards a brighter and more inclusive future.

Represented by Joy Ogbaje, the NUC boss expressed optimism that the initiative will rekindle the faith and hope of the youth in Nigeria, build their consciousness and democratic rights, and also entrench good practices.

According to him, the national debate is not only a testament to the vibrant intellectual spirit of the country’s youth but also a reflection of the boundless potential that nature has deposited in Nigeria’s future leaders.

“As a regulatory agency of government with the mandate of ensuring the orderly development of quality university education in Nigeria, I commend the effort of Yiaga Africa and key partners, and all Nigerian universities debate championship for the wonderful effort made towards this nation’s building initiative.”

Noting that the debate was more than just contests of knowledge, Maiyaki explained that they are vital arenas where ideas are tested, perspectives are broadened and solutions are crafted.“