Ronald Kayanja, Director of the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC), has assured the National Youth Biodiversity Network of UNIC’s commitment to supporting the development of a youth engagement strategy for implementing Nigeria’s National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAP).
Speaking at the National Youth Consultation Workshop on the NBSAP Review Process, held on September 5, 2024, at the UN House in Abuja, Kayanja, represented by National Information Officer Oluseyi Soremekun, praised the youth network’s creative approach in visually interpreting the 23 targets of the NBSAP. He noted that this effort will enhance public understanding of the framework and its goals. The workshop was organized by the National Youth Biodiversity Network in collaboration with UNDP and UNIC to ensure effective implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework in Nigeria.
Kayanja emphasized the importance of involving young people in the NBSAP implementation process, highlighting that their active participation is a positive development for Nigeria, given the critical role of conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity in achieving sustainable living.
Olusegun Michael Ogundele, National Coordinator of the Nigerian Youth Biodiversity Network, underscored the significance of youth inclusion in the national biodiversity strategy and action plans. He also presented the NBSAP Chart developed by the youth network to UNIC, which is intended to aid in public information and sensitization efforts about the framework.
This collaboration marks a significant step towards ensuring that the voices of young people are central to biodiversity conservation efforts in Nigeria, aligning with global biodiversity goals.
