Nigeria Youths in Politics has announced plans for its Democracy Day Conference 2026, scheduled for 10th June, with the theme “Now Is The Time: Youths Building a Sustainable Democracy.”
Speaking at a press conference, Hon. Blessing Oyefeso, President of Nigeria Youths in Politics, said the event will reflect on Nigeria’s democratic journey and the sacrifices of past heroes. “Today, we reflect on Nigeria’s democratic journey and the sacrifices made by past heroes and patriots who fought tirelessly for the survival of democracy in our nation,” he stated.
Oyefeso recalled that Nigeria’s return to democratic governance on May 29, 1999 marked a turning point as power transitioned from military rule to civilian leadership. He noted that while June 12 has been recognised nationally as Democracy Day in honour of the late Chief MKO Abiola and the struggle surrounding the 1993 election, both moments remain reminders of the price of freedom, justice and democratic governance.
“As young Nigerians, we believe democracy must not only be celebrated but sustained,” he said, explaining that the conference will bring together past leaders, present leaders, policymakers, youth leaders, students, professionals and aspiring leaders to discuss democratic governance, nation-building, youth inclusion, political participation and the future of Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle.
A major highlight will be the inauguration of the Nigeria Youths in Politics National Working Committee, which has been mandated to set the agenda for youth electoral participation and to monitor electoral umpires towards ensuring violence-free, peaceful, credible and transparent elections in 2027.
The conference will also feature the conferment of the Nigeria Youths in Politics Hall of Fame Awards on selected past leaders and distinguished personalities. Former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, GCFR, who is Father of the Occasion, will be decorated as the “Custodian of Democracy and Inter-Generational Leadership.” Former President Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR, who will serve as Chairman of the Occasion, will be honoured as the “Guardian of Peace and Selfless Leadership Icon.”
Barrister Seyi Tinubu, son of the President, will equally be inducted as the “Champion of Youth Political Inclusion” for his contributions towards youth engagement and political participation.
Renowned Pan-Africanist, legal scholar and public intellectual Prof. Patrick Lumumba will deliver the keynote address. “His wealth of knowledge, passion for African development, and commitment to ethical leadership will undoubtedly inspire meaningful conversations on the future of democracy and youth leadership in Nigeria and across Africa,” Oyefeso said.
Other distinguished personalities to be honoured include Prof. Jerry Gana, Prince Arthur Eze, and Engr. Mathew Tonlagha, Chairman of Maton Engineering Nigeria Limited. The organisation said these individuals have made remarkable contributions in leadership, nation-building, youth empowerment, enterprise and philanthropy.
“We strongly believe that honouring leaders who have contributed positively to national development will inspire younger Nigerians to embrace integrity, patriotism, visionary leadership, and selfless service,” Oyefeso added.
He called on government institutions, civil society organisations, youth groups, students, development partners and the media to join hands in advancing democratic values and promoting constructive youth participation in governance. “To the media, we appreciate your continued role as partners in democracy and nation-building. Your voices, platforms, and reportage remain vital in shaping public discourse and amplifying the aspirations of young Nigerians,” he said.
“Together, let us build a democracy that is inclusive, sustainable, peaceful, and beneficial to future generations,” he concluded.
