As part of its ongoing mobilization and campaign for inclusion of young people in policy and governance processes in the country, We the People on the 29th of July 2025 hosted a youth rally and lecture at the University of Cross River State, Calabar. The event which was organized in partnership with the Student Union Government of the University centered on strategies for ensuring that youths effectively engage the political space, and are more prepared to take-on leadership roles. The event brought together over 200 students and youth leaders. 

In her presentation on ‘Democratic Participation: A right for all, not a privileged few’, Ms. Enor Osikpong challenged participants to redefine the matrix of democracy to the extent that it reflects the role and active participation of young people. She questioned the authenticity and efficacy of Nigeria’s democracy when young people are calculatedly alienated from participating in all stages. “Can we truly call it democracy when the youth are not included? Can it be said that the policies are ours when we did not participate in making them?” 

In his lecture, human rights lawyer and We the People’s Project Officer, Austin Vicker, stressed that rights are not handed down—they are claimed and protected. He remined participants that young people have all it takes to participate in governance and should deliberately demand inclusion.

The event concluded with a rally around the campus where “Know-Your -Rights’ flyers and posters were distributed.

The activity is part of the #IncludeNaija project for youth inclusion and participation supported by the European Union and implemented by We the People, Rosa Luxemburg Foundation and Social Action.