Stakeholders Describe NILDS Quiz Catalyst for Youth Leadership, Stronger Democracy

By: Oluwakemi Kindness

As Nigeria continues to seek ways to deepen democratic participation, stakeholders have commended the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) for using education to build civic awareness among young people. Speaking at the opening of the 10th edition of the NILDS National Quiz Competition in Abuja, a member of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Marcus Onobun, described the quiz as a vital tool for raising informed and responsible young leaders who will drive Nigeria’s democratic future.

Represented by Eric Agabi, Hon Onobun said the decade-long competition reflects NILDS’ commitment to nurturing civic knowledge and inspiring national unity among students.  “A decade of this competition is a testament to NILDS’ dedication to grooming the next generation of leaders. Engaging youths in democratic learning is crucial to Nigeria’s progress,” he said.

He  urged students to understand the legislative process and how governance shapes everyday life. Also speaking, Hajiya Fatima Gambu-Baba, Director of Co-Curricular Activities at the FCT Secondary Education Board, applauded the expansion of the competition nationwide, noting its growing impact on civic learning. “For seven years, only the FCT participated. Extending it to all states has widened its reach and enriched students’ understanding of democracy and governance,” she said.

Declaring the event open, Professor Abubakar Sulaiman, Director-General of NILDS, said the competition is more than a quiz, describing it as an investment in Nigeria’s democratic future. “This is not just a contest. It is a celebration of knowledge, citizenship, and democratic values. A democracy thrives not only on strong institutions but also on an informed citizenry,” he stated.

Prof Sulaiman called for stronger efforts to fight apathy and misinformation among young Nigerians through civic engagement and education. He advised participants to embrace fairness, humility, and respect for diverse opinions, describing them as “the future custodians of Nigeria’s democracy.”

The 10th edition of the NILDS National Quiz brings together schools from all six geopolitical zones, including Model Secondary School, Akure (South-West); Academy Planet, Aba, Abia State (South-East); Annunciation Catholic College (South-South). Others are Bilikisu International School, Kaduna (North-West); Pen Resources Academy, Gombe (North-East); and School for the Gifted, Gwagwalada, Abuja (North-Central).

The event, held at the National Assembly Complex, underscores NILDS’ broader mission, using knowledge to strengthen democratic culture, leadership values, and national cohesion among young Nigerians.