Connecting Villages Initiative - CVI

Nigeria’s democracy must create space for new leaders, not continuously recycle political power among the same elite.

Today, more than 10 former governors sit in the Senate, while none of Nigeria’s 36 sitting governors is a young person (18–35 years) or a woman. This reflects a widening representation gap that continues to limit opportunities for youth, women, and grassroots leaders.

The growing trend of governors moving directly to the Senate weakens political inclusion, reduces leadership diversity, and shrinks democratic space for emerging voices.

A stronger democracy depends on opening political opportunities to competent young people, women, and community-rooted leaders who understand the realities citizens face daily.

Power must circulate for democracy to truly work for everyone.

Youth Democracy Summit 2026 in Rome, Italy (YDF 2026)

Includes visit to UN FAO Headquarters

Link: https://thecips.org/yds2026/ref/11/

Duration: 4 days | Oct 1–4 | Open to all nationalities - IELTS is not required

Fully Funded:
Airfare support
Hotel accommodation
Meals during forum
Full access
Visit to UN FAO Headquarters
Invitation letter
Certificate
Networking opportunities
Guided Visit to Roman Colosseum

Participation Categories

Fully Funded (30 Seats)
Partially Funded (90 Seats)
Summit Pass (100 Seats)
Self Funded Package (80 Seats)

Credit: 2026 CIPS

Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only. Please verify details on the official website before applying. The program has an application fee.

‎Call for Applications: Disability Inclusion Facilitators
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‎Are you a youth with a disability interested in leading the charge for equality?
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An exciting opportunity is available for passionate youths with disabilities to become Disability Inclusion Facilitators (DIFs) in a transformative initiative aimed at empowering young persons with disabilities across Nigeria.
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‎This programme focuses on enhancing access to dignified employment and fostering greater societal inclusion.
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‎Eligibility Criteria:
‎To ensure authentic representation and leadership from within the community, this specific call is reserved exclusively for persons with disabilities. We are looking for:

‎- Young leaders with disabilities (Physical, Sensory, or Intellectual).
‎- Age: 18–35 years old.
‎- Education: Minimum of a Diploma in Social Sciences or a related field.
‎- Skills: Fluency in English and a dedication to disability advocacy.
‎- Residency: Must reside in one of the target states listed below.
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‎Locations:
‎Bauchi, Bayelsa, Benue, Borno, Cross River, Ebonyi, Gombe, Imo, Katsina, Kebbi, Kogi, Niger, Oyo, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe, and Zamfara.
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‎How to Apply:
‎Please submit your CV and a motivation letter via the link below: https://jonapwdng.org/call-for-applications-disability-inclusion-officers/
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We look forward to seeing your impact!
‎Application Deadline: April 24th, 2026, by midnight.
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‎Photo Description: A blue and white “Call for Applications” flyer for Disability Inclusion Facilitators (DIFs). It lists eligibility requirements including persons with disabilities aged 18–35, fluency in English, a minimum diploma in social sciences, and residence in selected Nigerian states. The deadline is Friday, 24th April 2026.