Overview
Wake Up Nasarawa is a groundbreaking initiative by Mission4Impact aimed at addressing voter apathy and enhancing youth participation in democratic processes in Nasarawa State, Nigeria. The project is part of the broader “Sixty Percent of Us” initiative by YIAGA Africa, funded by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). It emphasizes the power of youth, envisioning a future where 60% of young voters can decisively influence Nigeria’s governance. Through targeted voter education, town hall meetings, and community engagement, Wake Up Nasarawa empowers young people to take an active role in governance, hold leaders accountable, and drive sustainable development through collective action.
The Problem
In Nasarawa State, voter apathy has been a persistent challenge, with low turnout rates recorded in both local and national elections. Prior to the project, only 21% of eligible youth in the region actively engaged in voting or civic activities. Contributing factors include:
- Lack of Civic Education: Many young people are unaware of their civic rights and responsibilities.
- Disillusionment with Governance: Broken promises and unfulfilled political commitments have eroded trust in leadership.
- Systemic Barriers: Women, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and marginalized groups face additional challenges, such as cultural and infrastructural constraints, limiting their participation.
Our Approach
Wake Up Nasarawa tackled these challenges through targeted interventions, including:
- Voter Education Campaigns: Educated youth on the importance of voting and their role in shaping governance.
- Town Hall Meetings: Organized community forums to foster meaningful conversations between citizens and local officials, promoting accountability and transparency.
- Voter Registration Drives: Mobilized over 3,000 first-time voters to register and collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).
- Awareness Campaigns: Leveraged social media and community outreach to spread the message of active citizenship.
Impact
The Wake Up Nasarawa project has significantly shifted the narrative around youth engagement in governance:
- 35% Increase in Youth Participation: The initiative increased youth involvement in civic activities, including voter registration and town hall meetings, up from 21% to 35%.
- Strengthened Communities: Fostered collaboration between citizens, traditional leaders, and local government officials to address shared challenges.
- Increased Awareness: The project’s social media campaigns reached thousands of young people, amplifying the message of active citizenship.
Funders and Partners
Wake Up Nasarawa was made possible through the support of:
- YIAGA Africa: Funded the project under its “Sixty Percent of Us” initiative.
- United Nations Development Programme (UNDP): Provided funding and strategic backing for the initiative.
Recognition
Wake Up Nasarawa was a grant won by Imran Ujih, Co-founder of Mission4Impact, under the Power of 18 Challenge. This challenge is a component of the “Sixty Percent of Us” project by YIAGA Africa, funded by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The project underscores the importance of youth-driven solutions for fostering democracy and governance in Nigeria.
Why It Matters
Wake Up Nasarawa is more than just a voter mobilization project; it is a movement that empowers young people to shape the future of their communities. By addressing voter apathy and fostering accountability, the initiative lays the foundation for inclusive governance and sustainable development in Nasarawa State.
