Most young Nigerians believe that civic engagement requires a platform they do not yet have: a seat in government, a large following, a well-funded organisation. None of that is true. The 1999 Constitution and the laws that flow from it give you more access than you are currently using. Here are four things you can do right now: Write to your elected representative. Every member of the House of Representatives and every senator has registered contact information filed with the National Assembly. Writing creates a record. It tells the representative that their constituent is paying attention. Submit a Freedom of Information request. Write a letter identifying the public institution, the specific record you want, and your contact details. Submit it by email or in person. It costs nothing. You have seven days to expect a response. Attend your LGA council sitting. Find out when your ward council holds sessions. Show up. Observe. This is your right as a citizen. Sign or organise a petition. A petition to the National Assembly, a state House of Assembly, or any public body can be submitted by any citizen. A well-organised petition with specific, documented demands carries weight.