A landmark event aimed at empowering Nigerian youth took place at the University of Maiduguri, focusing on building knowledge in policy advocacy and democratic engagement. This initiative is part of the “INCLUDE NAIJA Project,” which is supported by the European Union to foster a more inclusive and participatory democracy in Nigeria.
The campaign, titled “Know Your Rights, Know Your Power,” was held on Monday, August 18, 2025, at the Nur Alkali Hall of the Muhammadu Indimi International Learning Centre. Organized by Social Action and its partners, the event sought to equip students, youth leaders, and activists with the essential skills and knowledge needed to engage effectively in governance and advocate for positive societal change.
The program, which commenced at 3:25 PM, was opened with a welcoming address by Dr. Rahila Jibril. The host, Comrade Isaac Botti, then introduced the dignitaries and guest speakers, providing a broad overview of the program’s objectives.
Empowering Youth Through Constitutional Knowledge
The keynote speaker, Professor Abubakar Muazu, delivered a compelling address on the “core constitutional rights” of citizens and youth. He emphasized that the rights of ordinary citizens are the same as those of their leaders, a fact often unrealized by the populace. Professor Muazu highlighted key areas of human rights, including civil, political, economic, and social-cultural rights, and pointed out the specific rights of vulnerable groups. He lamented that the government has often failed to fulfill its duties at the local, state, and federal levels, thereby denying citizens their rights.
Professor Muazu underscored the immense potential of Nigeria’s youth, who constitute over 65% of the population. He stressed that with organization and unity, they have the power to enact significant change, including influencing government through their voting power and their ability to organize, demonstrate, and protest. He urged the youth to translate knowledge into action, starting with community engagement like cleaning drainages and environments, reminding them that “charity begins at home” and that the “power of ‘organized many’ is more than the ‘power of one'”.
Understanding Citizen’s Rights and Gender Equality
Another keynote speaker, Barrister Ali Azur, spoke on the “citizen shield,” elaborating on fundamental human rights as outlined in flyers distributed at the event. These rights include:
He also emphasized that unlawful detention, surrogate arrests, and torture are strictly prohibited.
Barrister Azur also championed gender equality as a fundamental human right, highlighting that the constitution prohibits sex-based discrimination and that the VAPP Act serves as a powerful shield for citizens. He further asserted that “Inheritance Rights are women’s Rights”.
A Call to Action for the Youth
Comrade Isaac Botti, who also served as one of the speakers, reinforced the message of youth empowerment under the theme “you have the power to create change”. He encouraged the youth to document for impact, mobilize and build coalitions, and use their voices both online and offline to effect change. He reiterated the aims and objectives of the program, tagging the youth for success. The campaign aims to increase knowledge of rights, build policy advocacy skills, strengthen understanding of governance processes, and foster collaborative and ethical advocacy.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Rahila Jibril. The program was a resounding success in its mission to cultivate responsible, informed, and active citizens who can contribute to a more transparent and accountable society. The day ended with group photographs of the participants and organizers.