From Silence To Courage: Nigeria Launches Youth-Driven Whistleblowing Campaign
In a country where silence has often shielded corruption, a new youth-focused initiative is seeking to flip the narrative, turning whistleblowing into a badge of courage rather than betrayal.
A coalition led by Step Up Nigeria in partnership with the Platform to Protect Whistleblowers in Africa (PPLAAF) has unveiled the 2026 World Whistleblower Day Art and Media Competition, aimed at empowering young Nigerians to speak up against corruption.
Speaking in Abuja, the Director of Programmes at Step Up Nigeria, Oluwaferanmi Iyanda, described the initiative as a platform for young people to channel creativity into advocacy for transparency and accountability.
She noted that the competition aligns with the United Nations Convention against Corruption, stressing the need to raise awareness and inspire collective action.
Participants aged 15 to 35 are invited to submit creative entries, including artwork, skits, and music, highlighting the role of whistleblowers and the urgent need for stronger legal protections.
The competition runs from March to June 2026, with the submission deadline extended to April 12.
Reinforcing the message, Dele Oyewale of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission said whistleblowing remains critical to Nigeria’s anti-corruption fight.
He described the youth as a vital force in intelligence gathering and urged them to act not for incentives, but for national progress, assuring that mechanisms exist to protect informants despite existing legal gaps.
Also speaking, Shekwogaza Kure emphasised the campaign’s broader goal, to redefine whistleblowing as an act of bravery that strengthens democracy.
From the public sector, Mohammed Wase of the National Orientation Agency urged young Nigerians to reject apathy, warning that silence in the face of corruption ultimately undermines their future.
Winners of the competition will receive cash prizes and national recognition, as organisers hope the initiative will spark a grassroots movement where young Nigerians become active watchdogs in the fight against corruption.
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