Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has charged Nigerian youth to actively participate in Nigeria’s political development and future, rather than seeing themselves as spectators.

The governor gave the charge at the Democracy Day lecture organized in commemoration of June 12 in Abuja on Thursday.

According to him, democracy does not rely on institutions alone but requires the active participation of citizens, people who will vote, ask questions, and write and engage.

“Young Nigerians must see themselves as part of this system. They must see themselves as participants, not mere spectators. You inherited the right earned in 1993.

“You must also inherit the responsibilities they are there. Change comes from active participation, not docility. There is also the matter of political will,” he said.

Uzodinma, who is also the Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, reiterated that no constitution or system, no matter how perfect, can enforce itself or resist manipulation without principled actors.

He added that the Nigerian Education Loan Fund was expanding access to higher education, ensuring that no willing student was denied the opportunity due to poverty.

“These efforts are the signs of a government serious about translating governance into the outcomes where progress can be seen, felt, and sustained. As we commemorate June 12, let us not reduce it to mere history.

“Today, the road ahead requires commitment. Institutions must be built to survive transitions. Political actors must agree on basic rules. The press must remain independent,” the governor stated.