The Impact of the “Not Too Young To Run” Law on Youth Political Candidacy in Nigeria (2018–2025)

The Impact of the “Not Too Young To Run” Law on Youth Political Candidacy in Nigeria (2018–2025)

Abstract

This study evaluates the impact of the “Not Too Young To Run” Law on youth political participation and candidacy in Nigeria between 2018 and 2025. The law, which lowered the constitutional age limits for elective offices, aimed to increase youth inclusion in politics and governance. The research examines how far this reform has influenced youth representation in political parties, elective positions, and policy participation. Using secondary data from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), media reports, and academic sources, the study applies the political participation theory to assess the effectiveness of the law. Findings are expected to reveal that while the legislation enhanced awareness and inspired youth activism, structural barriers such as party financing, godfatherism, and internal democracy still limit youth candidacy. The study contributes to policy dialogue on democratic inclusion, political reform, and the empowerment of young Nigerians.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

Political participation is an essential element of democracy, reflecting how citizens influence governance and decision-making. In Nigeria, youth make up more than 60% of the population, yet their representation in elective and appointive positions has historically been minimal. For decades, political power has been dominated by older elites who control party structures, campaign resources, and electoral systems.

In 2018, the Nigerian government enacted the “Not Too Young To Run” Law, which amended Sections 65, 106, 131, and 177 of the 1999 Constitution. This reform reduced the age qualification for contesting elective offices: from 40 to 35 years for the presidency, from 35 to 30 years for governorship, and from 30 to 25 years for the House of Representatives and State Assemblies. The law emerged from a nationwide youth advocacy campaign supported by civil society, the media, and international organizations.

Since its passage, the law has generated widespread discussions about its real impact on youth inclusion in politics. Although it created opportunities for young aspirants, challenges such as high nomination fees, internal party politics, and limited access to campaign funding continue to hinder many young Nigerians from contesting or winning elections. Therefore, assessing the impact of this legal reform is crucial to understanding whether it achieved its intended purpose of broadening democratic participation.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite the enactment of the “Not Too Young To Run” Law, youth representation in Nigerian politics remains disproportionately low. Although more young candidates now express interest in running for office, only a few have successfully secured elective positions. Political parties continue to operate with weak internal democracy, while financial and structural barriers persist.

Furthermore, the dominance of older politicians discourages genuine competition, reducing the visibility of young aspirants. Consequently, the question arises: Has the “Not Too Young To Run” Law significantly increased youth political candidacy and participation between 2018 and 2025? This study seeks to provide empirical answers to that question by analyzing the progress, challenges, and policy implications of the law.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The main objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of the “Not Too Young To Run” Law on youth political candidacy in Nigeria between 2018 and 2025.
Specifically, the study aims to:

1. Examine the level of youth political participation before and after the enactment of the law.

2. Analyze the number of youth candidates fielded and elected across major political parties.

3. Identify challenges that still hinder effective youth inclusion in politics.

4. Suggest strategies to strengthen youth representation in future elections.

1.4 Research Questions

1. How has the “Not Too Young To Run” Law affected youth participation in politics since 2018?

2. What changes have occurred in the number of youth candidates and elected officials?

3. What factors still limit youth political representation in Nigeria?

4. How can policymakers enhance youth inclusion in the political process?

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study holds both academic and policy relevance. Academically, it contributes to the understanding of youth participation and legislative reforms in emerging democracies. Policymakers and advocacy groups can use the findings to design more effective youth empowerment strategies. Furthermore, it helps identify gaps between constitutional reforms and practical political realities, promoting evidence-based governance reforms in Nigeria.

1.6 Scope and Limitations of the Study

The study covers the period from 2018, when the law was enacted, to 2025, to assess its medium-term effects. It focuses on youth candidacy in national and state elections, using available data from INEC and political party records. Limitations include incomplete data on age-disaggregated candidacy and the influence of informal political dynamics, which may not always be reflected in official statistics.

1.7 Theoretical Framework

This research adopts the Political Participation Theory, which explains how social, economic, and institutional factors influence individuals’ involvement in political processes. The theory posits that inclusive policies, political awareness, and accessible institutions encourage active participation. By applying this framework, the study assesses how the “Not Too Young To Run” Law interacts with broader systemic factors such as political culture, party financing, and electoral integrity to shape youth candidacy.

1.8 Definition of Key Terms

• Youth: Individuals between the ages of 18 and 35 years, as defined by Nigerian law.

• Candidacy: The act of contesting or seeking election into a political office.

• Political Participation: The process by which citizens engage in political activities, including voting, campaigning, or contesting elections.

• Not Too Young To Run Law: A constitutional amendment that lowered the age limits for contesting elective offices in Nigeria.

• Democratic Inclusion: The active involvement of diverse social groups, including youth, in governance and policy-making.