In a historic and symbolic move designed to highlight youth participation in governance, 17-year-old Joy Ogah took on the role of Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for one day. The initiative saw her step into the office of Kashim Shettima, the country’s Vice President, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Joy’s one-day appointment comes as part of a government-backed youth leadership programme, aimed at sending a clear message: the next generation must be seen, heard and engaged in national decision-making. According to the announcement circulated by Punch Newspapers, Joy “symbolically took over the seat of Vice President … for a day, using the platform to advocate for youth and education.”
Joy, a secondary-school student whose accomplishments in debate and civic engagement captured the attention of the selection committee, was chosen from among a large number of youth participants across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. Her selection followed outstanding performance in an essay and debate competition themed around youth leadership and national development.
Early yesterday morning, she arrived at the Presidential Villa, formally greeted by Vice President Shettima and other officials. She was introduced to the protocols of the office — the delegation of authority, the routine of official engagement, and the expectations that come with public service.
Throughout the day, Joy participated in a series of programme events designed to reflect the responsibilities of the vice-presidency. She chaired a mock meeting of the Federal Executive Council (FEC), where she addressed cabinet ministers and youth representatives. In her brief but powerful address, Joy spoke directly to the nation:
“I stand here today as a voice for every Nigerian young person whose dreams are bigger than their circumstances. Our generation has energy, imagination and the will to act. Give us the opportunity, and we will serve.”
Her remarks drew applause from officials and attendees. Vice President Shettima, in his remarks, described the occasion as “more than a symbolic gesture” and underlined the government’s commitment to “partnering with young Nigerians in shaping the future, not just preparing them for it”.
Joy also visited the National Youth Development Centre and met with young entrepreneurs, innovators and members of the National Youth Council of Nigeria. She used the platform to call for increased investment in digital skills, quality education and youth-centred policy planning.
News of the event spread quickly on social media, with hashtags such as #TeenVPDay, #JoyOgah, and #YouthInGovernance trending across platforms. Many Nigerians voiced optimism that the event symbolises a turning point in how youth are engaged in governance and national affairs. Some commentators noted it as “a breakthrough moment for youth representation” while others cautioned that symbolic roles must be followed by concrete policy and opportunity.
The Ministry of Youth and Sports Development announced that Joy has been awarded a full university scholarship and will receive mentorship from senior government officials and private-sector leaders to help her achieve her leadership aspirations.
At the close of her day in office, Joy reflected on the experience. She described it as “humbling, inspiring and eye-opening” and said she now understands that leadership is less about titles and more about service. She added: “I hope to one day serve my country not just for one day, but for many years, in a role where my generation is actively shaping policy, solutions and outcomes.”
The “Vice President for One Day” initiative is expected to become an annual event, with the aim of empowering exceptional young Nigerians and encouraging greater youth involvement in governance. Joy’s story is being hailed not only as a personal achievement but as a symbol of what is possible when young people are given a platform and voice in national affairs.
As Joy stood beside the Vice President for the national anthem yesterday, smiles all around captured the moment: a schoolgirl elevated—if only for a day—to the country’s second-highest office, inspiring millions of her peers and signalling a new era of youth inclusion in Nigeria’s democracy.
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