Hosted by TV personality Adaure Achumba and Comedian Owen Gee, the event provided attendees the platform to discuss measures needed to promote youth participation in politics and prevent electoral violence.
The documentary produced by the International Republican Institute (IRI) in partnership with United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the United States Consulate is a 30-minute documentary profiling young Nigerian leaders like Chude Jideonwo, Mosunmola Umoru, Kola Oyeneyin, Olusola Onibginde, Tosin Jegede and their expectations for a future Nigeria.
Giving the keynote address, Mrs. Dehab Ghebreab; representing U.S. Consulate General, Jeffery Hawkins said "As part of a global community and vital to good governance, youths should get involved and participate in electoral processes by registering and voting during elections, staying informed and keeping abreast issues affecting their communities… The future of Nigeria is in the hands of the youth, so youths should be the change they want to see in Nigeria before, during and after the 2015 elections."
The documentary filmed by Ray McNally from McNally Temple Associates, Inc. of California in partnership with popular Nigerian artist; Banky W, provides useful information to political parties and aspirants as they prepare to review and develop party constitutions and manifestoes. It also features other musical stars, including 2Face ldibia, and Wizkid; youth CSO leaders; university students.
Speaking during the panel discussion on Youth Participation in Politics and Governance as well as Impact of Electoral Violence on Youth, Banky W said "Young people change the world, young people make history. The more young people get involved in Nigeria; the faster we get the change we're seeking for". He was on the panel with Yemi Adamolekun (Coordinator, Enough is Enough), Yaw (On Air Personality), Gbenga Sesan (Paradigm Initiative Nigeria) and Akin Rotimi (Principal Private Secretary to Ekiti State Governor).
Guests present at the event included Jimi Agbaje, Honourable Folami Muslim, Timi Dakolo, Tunde Demuren, Latasha Ngwube, Gretchen Birkle; Director, IRI, Julie Koenen; Deputy Director, USAID, Iyadunni Olubode; Executive Director, LEAP Africa, Otto Orandaam, Adesuwa Ifedi; Country Director; Enactus, Christopher Ibe, Uloma Osuala, amongst others.
International Republican Institute (IRI) works in several countries of the world and has been in Nigeria since 1999 supporting the development of political parties, civic institutions, open elections and democratic governance.
for more information; visit www.iri.org
