“And if we do not understand the past and build upon its successes, it is very likely that our success, however important, will be limited, our progress will be stunted, and the future will continue to mirror the past.”

Chude Jideonwo
(CEO, Joy Inc)

Dear Active Citizen,

Fifteen years ago, on February 26, 2010, a 24-year-old Nigerian named Chude Jideonwo refused to stay silent. Frustrated by government failures and a country on the brink, he sent an email—a passionate call to action that struck a nerve with young Nigerians.

At the time, President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua had disappeared for over two months without an explanation. Jos was burning in crisis, fuel scarcity crippled daily life, and the government had backtracked on its promise of 6,000 megawatts of electricity. Nigerians were watching in frustration—until Chude’s email became the spark that ignited a movement.

On March 16, 2010, young Nigerians, energized by his words, took to the streets in front of the National Assembly in Abuja. Surrounded by a heavy police presence, they had one bold demand: uphold the rule of law and swear in Vice President Goodluck Jonathan as President. That moment birthed EiE Nigeria, proving that when citizens unite, change happens.

Today,  that same power still lies in your hands. In 2010, it was an email. In 2025, we have social media, digital organizing, and more ways to take action than ever before. If Chude’s email could inspire a generation, imagine what YOU can do now.

Follow us on our social media platforms - TikTok, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Linkedin, turn on post notifications, and let’s shake things up together. Also, click here for useful resources that’ll help you navigate civic participation like a pro.

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Have a great weekend!
The EiE Nigeria Team.