Abstract
The study explored the predictive roles of perceived political marginalization and political trust on political participation, with resilience as a potential moderator, among Nigerian youths. A total of 204 undergraduate students (98 males and 82 females), aged 18–30 years (M = 23.35, SD = 5.06), from Alex-Ekwueme Federal University, Ebonyi State, participated in the study using a survey design. Data were collected through standardized instruments: the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, Political Trust Scale, Political Marginalization Scale, and Political Participation Scale. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that political trust significantly predicted political participation (β = .15, p < .001), while political marginalization and resilience did not show significant predictive effects. Furthermore, resilience did not moderate the relationships between either political marginalization or political trust and
political participation. Gender and age were significant predictors, with male gender negatively related and increasing age positively related to political participation. The findings suggest that trust in political institutions enhances civic engagement among young Nigerians, while resilience alone may not buffer the effects of political disenchantment. Implications for democratic governance and youth political inclusion in Nigeria are discussed.