A Conversation With Rajab Kabir Ogiri: On Growing Up in Politics and Leading Young

In a country like Nigeria, where political apathy runs deep, it’s easy for young people to feel like their voices don’t matter.

Despite making up over half of the voting population, youth hold less than 10% of elective offices, while older men still dominate leadership at every level. Still, no matter how impossible it looks, young people must not give up ownership of their nation. Their voices, energy, and ideas remain the key to real change.

Eve sat with Rajab Kabir Ogiri, a young Nigerian actively involved in politics, sharing what this journey has truly been like for him.

Eve: Can you tell me a bit about yourself?

Rajab: My name is Rajab Kabir Ogiri. I’m from Doma Local Government Area of Nasarawa State. I’m an engineer by training, a tax officer by profession, and a politician by passion.

I was born into a family with a strong history of community service. My father was a district head, so leadership and public service have always been part of my upbringing.

Eve: What first inspired you to get into politics?

Rajab: I grew up watching my father lead our community with dedication and integrity. He was a district head and an active politician, and seeing how he served people planted that interest in me from a young age.

It showed me that real leadership starts from the grassroots, and that inspired me to follow the same path.

Eve: How has your experience in politics been so far?

Rajab: It’s been amazing. I’ve learned so much. The more you get involved, the more you realize how deeply politics affects every part of our lives. I always tell my friends that we can’t just sit back and criticize leaders if we’re not willing to participate ourselves.

I remember listening to an interview by Mallam Nasir El-Rufai that completely reshaped how I saw politics. He said when democracy returned in 1999, the best minds, the “first-class materials”, went into academia, the “second-class uppers” went into office jobs, and politics was left to the “third class” who had no other options. 

Those least prepared to lead ended up making the biggest decisions, deciding our salaries, our roads, our healthcare, everything. That made me realize how dangerous it is when intelligent, capable young people avoid politics. That’s why I believe we must get involved, because if we don’t, others will decide for us.

Eve: Have you faced any challenges because of your age?

Rajab: Yes, I have.

At 26, I tried to contest for a seat in the House of Assembly, and many people felt I was too young. Even within my family, some relatives told me to step aside for an older uncle who was also contesting. They thought age meant experience. Outside the family, people would say, “What can this small boy do?” 

It’s a common mentality that young people can’t lead. But thankfully, things are changing. In my constituency, we’ve elected candidates as young as 26 and 27, and that gives me hope.

Eve: How did you manage or overcome those challenges?

Rajab: My mindset keeps me going. I believe that if you can dream it and stay consistent, you can achieve it. That belief has kept me in politics despite the obstacles. I’ve promised myself never to quit, no matter what.

Eve: Who or what has kept you grounded on this journey?

Rajab: My biggest source of strength is the belief I have in myself. And my greatest inspiration is my late father. He was my teacher, my mentor, and my everything. Remembering his example keeps me steady and motivated.

Eve: What key lessons have politics taught you so far?

Rajab: Politics has opened my eyes to a bigger stage in life. It has given me recognition and allowed me to contribute to my community. For example, helping to bring the Nigerian Institute of Leather and Science Technology Extension Centre to Doma.

I’ve also learned that not everyone who cheers for you truly supports you. You need patience, perseverance, and the strength to stay focused even when people disappear at crucial moments.

Eve: How do you think this journey shapes your future?

Rajab: Every step I take now gives me more hope for the future.

I’m gaining experience, building relationships, and staying connected to people at the grassroots. With time, I’ll have the network and resources to make an even bigger impact. Politics has shown me that every big dream starts small, and mine is still alive.

Eve: What advice would you give to other young people?

Rajab: Please, get involved.

Don’t let anyone make you feel like you can’t make a difference. You’re not a thug, and no one should use you. If someone can’t support you positively, walk away.

Even if you’re not contesting, join a political party you believe in and participate. It’s through our involvement that we can hold leaders accountable and push for real solutions.

Our problems aren’t spiritual; they’re man-made, and only people can fix them. So let’s stop watching from the sidelines and start shaping the future we want.

Eve: Thank you for your time, Rajab. 

Rajab: Thank you for having me, Eve. 

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