Blog

Overview

The Active Citizenship and Leadership Development Project, spearheaded by Mission4Impact, aims to empower young people and community-based organizations (CBOs) to become proactive leaders and active participants in civic processes. This initiative is designed to nurture responsible, skilled, and visionary individuals who can drive positive change within their communities while strengthening democratic practices in Nasarawa State, Nigeria.

The Problem

Youth disengagement and lack of leadership capacity remain significant challenges in Nasarawa State. Among the issues identified are:

• Limited Civic Knowledge: Many young people lack awareness of their roles and responsibilities as active citizens.
• Inadequate Leadership Skills: Few platforms exist to equip youth and CBOs with the necessary skills to lead effectively.
• Disconnected Communities: Insufficient mentorship opportunities and exposure to exemplary leadership hinder the growth of potential change-makers.

Our Approach

The project encompasses two major areas: Leadership and Civic Participation and Mentorship.

Leadership and Civic Participation

This component focuses on equipping participants with the knowledge and skills needed for active engagement in civic life and leadership roles. Key activities included:

1. Workshops: Comprehensive training sessions covering civic rights, leadership principles, and governance.
2. Group Activities and Simulations: Practical exercises designed to enhance problem-solving, collaboration, and decision-making skills.
3. Panel Sessions: Interactive discussions with notable personalities, providing insights into real-world leadership challenges and opportunities.
4. Tests and Assessments: Pre- and post-training evaluations to measure knowledge acquisition and growth.

Mentorship

This component fosters personal and professional growth through targeted experiences and engagement with role models. Activities included:

1. Tour of the Shehu Yar’adua Center: An inspiring visit to a landmark dedicated to leadership and civic responsibility.
2. Film Show: A curated screening aimed at sparking discussions on leadership and social change.
3. Fireside Chat: Intimate, impactful conversations with youth leaders who shared their journeys, challenges, and successes.

Impact

The Active Citizenship and Leadership Development Project has achieved remarkable outcomes:

• Enhanced Leadership Capacity: Participants gained practical skills and confidence to take on leadership roles within their communities.
• Strengthened Civic Participation: Increased understanding and engagement in civic responsibilities among youth and CBOs.
• Fostered Mentorship Relationships: The mentorship component created lasting connections between participants and accomplished leaders, inspiring continued growth and learning.

Funders and Partners

The project was funded by:

• MacArthur Foundation
• Ford Foundation through LEAP Africa

Why It Matters

The Active Citizenship and Leadership Development Project is more than a training initiative; it is a transformative journey that equips youth and CBOs with the tools to lead and actively participate in governance. By fostering leadership and mentorship, the project empowers communities to build a more inclusive, accountable, and democratic society.