As Nigeria gears up for the 2027 general elections, youths in Nasarawa State have taken to trekking long distances in support of politicians, a trend that has sparked debate over the welfare of participants and the implications for democratic engagement.
Across multiple communities, videos and images of mostly young men walking for hours—or even days—under scorching heat have gone viral on social media. Supporters hail the treks as demonstrations of loyalty and sacrifice, but critics warn the practice raises deeper questions about youth priorities, economic pressures, and the evolving nature of political mobilisation.
Several residents spoke to DAILY POST, expressing concern that the trend reinforces long-standing stereotypes about Nigerian youths. Ekka Egbi Phillip argued, “This only confirms what former President, late Muhammadu Buhari, once said about Nigerian youths being lazy. The energy spent on trekking could be channelled into education, skills acquisition, or entrepreneurship.”
Others offered a different perspective, citing economic realities. One resident, who preferred anonymity, said, “Many participate expecting material rewards—motorcycles, cash gifts, or positions once politicians win. For youths struggling to survive, it’s hard to ignore these incentives.”
Political analysts caution that transactional support undermines democratic accountability. “When votes are essentially bought through gifts, it becomes difficult to demand good governance,” said a civic advocate. “Beneficiaries may feel restrained from holding leaders accountable when performance falls short.”
Some residents worry that public trekking is overshadowing formal political processes, including party delegate structures. Aminu Mamuda Otaki, commenting on Nasarawa Mirrors’ Facebook page, insisted, “The health and security implications may be debated, but any aspirant who cannot inspire people to trek has no business dreaming of winning the next gubernatorial election. Trends don’t emerge by accident. Right now, trekkers matter more than delegates.”
Observers argue that such shifts risk elevating popularity over competence, creating conditions for vote-buying and weakening credible candidate selection.
The debate intensified after social commentator Ramlat Al-Ameen posted a viral video reflecting on the trend. “Today, I travelled from my town to meet politicians for money, a handshake, or a photo. What lesson am I teaching the next generation?” she asked. Ramlat warned that the trend sends the wrong signal: political proximity is rewarded, while creativity, technical skills, and community service are overlooked. “This is Naija where trekking gets you a motorcycle, while skills get you ignored. No wonder brains are leaving while legs are winning prizes,” she said.
Ramlat concluded with a call for a shift in focus: “If trekking gave us jobs, I should have trekked to every state capital by now. But progress requires minds, skills, and leadership—not just legs.”
As the 2027 elections approach, the trekking trend in Nasarawa reflects a broader national challenge: how to redirect youthful energy from symbolic political gestures toward meaningful civic participation and productive engagement. For many, the question is no longer just about trekking—it’s about the values Nigeria rewards and the future role of its youths in shaping the nation’s democracy.
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