At the International Youth Day celebration in Abuja on Monday, stakeholders emphasized that the government has no valid excuses for failing to improve the lives of its citizens, asserting that it must be held accountable for policies that do not align with the needs of the people.
This year’s theme, “From Awareness to Action: Empowering Youth in Nigeria for the SDGs,” highlighted the power and potential of young people, focusing on government accountability and commitment to addressing critical issues such as gender equality, climate action, decent work, and employability.
Key discussions revolved around bridging the digital divide, enhancing investments in education, fostering critical thinking and information literacy, combating gender biases in the tech industry, and supporting young innovators in driving the digital solutions needed for societal development.
Aliyu Yusuf, Communication Manager for the Nigeria Youth SDGs (NGYouthSDGs), a youth-led civil society organization, stressed the importance of meaningful youth engagement in policies and programs. He outlined the organization’s focus on education, capacity development, livelihoods, employment, and civic participation for young people, noting that NGYouthSDGs, which started as an unregistered group in 2017 and was registered in 2021, aims to contribute to Nigeria’s sustainable development with the support of its youth.
Yusuf acknowledged the support of various organizations, including Oxfam in Nigeria, African Activists for Climate Justice, Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation, International Labour Organization, Amnesty International Nigeria, Aid for Rural Education Advancement Initiative, and Connected Development. He praised these groups for their efforts in improving the lives of youth and women and advocating for a people-centered approach to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.
Opeyemi Ogundeji, Programme Manager of NGYouthSDGs, highlighted the organization’s efforts to mobilize meaningful youth engagement, stating, “We believe that young people have the power, strength, and creative ideas to lead change. By equipping them with the knowledge and skills to address systemic issues, they can influence their peers and stakeholders.”
Maxwell Osarenkhoe, Communications Officer for Oxfam in Nigeria, discussed Oxfam’s role in influencing policies that advocate for rural communities, the poor, and the vulnerable. He noted that Oxfam has been involved in initiatives to improve food security and livelihoods, particularly through SME development for youths, enabling them to compete in the 21st-century market.
International Youth Day 2024 not only celebrates the qualities of young people but also recognizes the challenges they face, highlighting exemplary youths who serve as role models for their peers.
