THE CHALLENGES OF YOUTH PARTICIPATION IN POLITICS AND GOVERNANCE IN NIGERIA: A CASE STUDY OF JERE LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, BORNO STATE, NIGERIA

ABSTRACT The study examines the challenges of youth participation in politics and governance in Nigeria. With reference to Jere Local Government Area, Borno State. The aims of the study are to identify the causes of youth exchanging in the active politics in Jere LGA, Borno State. The study adopted quantitative methods of analysis. Data from questionnaire survey was tabulated and analyzed using frequency counts and percentages. The rational choice model, also called rational choice theory refers to a set of guidelines that help understand economic and social behavior. The theory originated in the eighteenth century and can be traced back to the political economist and philosopher, the theory postulates that an individuals in a wide range of contexts outside of economics. It is also used in political science. Finding, political parties as the important pillars of political activities are the platforms for youth political participation in Jere LGA Borno State. Majority of youth in the state identify with political parties registered members and supporters and in participating in party activities such as party primaries, congresses, and membership mobilization and election campaigns. However, dispite their overwhelming support to political parties, the youth could not participate as party candidates during elections. Education qualification and age are important determinants of youth political participation, the study finds that the large percentage of those who did not participate because of these factors is having tertiary education. Beyond the question of money, majority of youth in Jere LGA Borno State participate in political activities for rational reasons of supporting their parties, personal security, as registered members of their parties and support their friends/parents. Based on the findings the following key policy recommendation could offer such hope and consolidate the prospects. The involvement of youth in politics should go beyond the periphery that is, voting only and serving as political thugs. There should extentive advocacy by CSO and other key stakeholders to sensitize the youth to embrace tertiary education as it opens fundamentals political opportunities, including participation in party activities and governance. Through this, enrolment and retention of students in tertiary institutions would be improved. Youth of 18 – 30 years generally tend to be more rational in their thinking and decisions. And this is the age of tertiary education.