One major criticism of Nigeria’s political parties has been the lack of internal democracy and weak political education among members, many parties are often seen as election vehicles rather than institutions that groom leaders; but the Labour Party (LP) says it wants to change that narrative.
On Monday, LP National Chairman Julius Abure announced plans to establish a Labour Party Democratic Institute in Abuja. The proposed institute, he said, will provide structured political training for members, party agents, and aspiring politicians, while promoting civic engagement across the country.
Abure revealed this when he received a delegation from the International Republican Institute (IRI), led by its Resident Programme Director, Sentell Barnes, at the LP National Headquarters.
According to Abure, the institute will equip young Nigerians and party members with the skills required to contribute meaningfully to governance and democratic growth.
He explained that the project builds on LP’s existing inclusivity policies. In the 2023 general elections, the party offered free or subsidised nomination forms to women, youths, and less privileged aspirants. That policy produced tangible results, including the election of Senator Ireti Kingibe in the Federal Capital Territory and the rise of female state party chairpersons in Edo, Rivers, and Lagos.
“The Labour Party is committed to dismantling barriers to political participation and promoting social equity,” Abure said. “This Democratic Institute will institutionalise that commitment through structured training and mentorship.”
IRI pledges support for Nigerian democracy
In his remarks, IRI’s Sentell Barnes praised the Labour Party’s efforts towards inclusivity. He added that IRI would continue supporting Nigerian parties with policy development workshops and advocacy for gender balance in leadership.
Analysts believe this development could push other political parties to invest in political education, a sector often neglected despite Nigeria’s growing democratic challenges.
