By ENITAN ABEL JOHNGOLD
Speakers at the inauguration of Soft Nigeria in Asaba have called on young Nigerians to embrace constructive advocacy as a pathway to national development rather than destructive agitation.
Delivering a keynote address titled “Youth as Partners in Governance: Constructive Advocacy versus Destructive Agitation,” Woyemi Adeyemi stressed that youth must be recognized as critical stakeholders in governance processes.
“Youth are not merely beneficiaries of public policy; they are partners whose engagement shapes legitimacy, innovation, and sustainability,” he said.
Adeyemi noted that governance extends beyond government institutions to include processes, policies, and civic interactions. He argued that meaningful youth participation requires institutional inclusion, political literacy, and responsible activism.
The keynote distinguished between constructive advocacy, defined as organized, peaceful, evidence-based engagement — and destructive agitation characterized by violence, vandalism, and institutional disruption.
While acknowledging that agitation often stems from legitimate grievances such as unemployment, inequality, and political exclusion, he warned that destructive methods could undermine democratic stability and economic progress.
He cited global examples, including initiatives supported by institutions like the United Nations and the African Union Commission, which promote inclusive governance models that incorporate youth perspectives.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Uche Mgbakor described Nigeria as being at a defining moment, calling on citizens, especially youths, to support ongoing reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He explained that Soft Nigeria is not a political party or campaign structure but a civic bridge designed to simplify government policies and promote informed participation.
Over the next 12 months, the movement plans to organize town hall meetings, campus engagements, market outreaches, and community dialogues across the 36 states to explain reforms in job creation, education, and economic opportunities.
In her welcome remarks, the Senior Special Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Media, Oputa Ebipade Okoh-Vida, said the initiative would operate both digitally and at the grassroots to ensure government policies are communicated in accessible formats.
Organizers said the movement would partner with student bodies, youth associations, faith-based groups, and community leaders nationwide to promote civic education and unity.
The Asaba launch signals what promoters describe as a coordinated effort to transform youth energy into democratic capital through structured engagement and policy dialogue.
