Can you tell us a little bit about yourself? 

Hi, my name is Eniola, and I’m a ONE activist in Nigeria. I live in the beautiful city of Lagos, and I am 34 years old. My activism spans across job creation, health reform, fighting poverty, and helping citizens engage with their governments.

What inspired you to become an activist?

Coincidence! I have always been passionate about advocating for human rights and fair treatment for everyone, but I didn’t know how to do it at scale. Fortunately, I got a job working for an NGO that uses tech tools to ensure transparency and accountability in government spending, and it sparked my love of speaking out about human rights. I haven't looked back since. 

What is your most memorable moment as an activist?

My most memorable moment has been my work with ONE in Nigeria. I've spoken to decision-makers, planned campaigns and digital communication strategies, and have taken my advocacy to the next level. As part of ONE's Africa-European Taskforce, I had the privilege of representing African youth at two key international meetings. I spoke out about youth inclusion and participation in governance, tech exchange, and economic recovery following the pandemic.

Tell us about a campaign or cause that inspired you to take action.

Without a doubt, ONE's Jobs Now Africa and the Make Naija Stronger campaigns are at the top of my list. 

The Make Naija Stronger campaign is particularly personal to me. Before I joined ONE as an activist, Nigerian music artist Waje came to our building to offer her condolences to my neighbor who had lost his wife due to poor healthcare services. Since then, I’ve been calling for better health services across Nigeria, especially in primary healthcare centres.

Increasing the number of decent jobs across Africa is another cause I hold dear. It inspired me to set up a social enterprise called Pitcherd People. It aims to empower a community of young women through access to decent jobs and entrepreneurship.

As a 'factivist', what is one fact that you wish more people knew?

Young people under the age of 30 make up less than 2% of the world's members of parliament. More than 75% of the world's upper chambers have no members under the age of 30.