As we celebrate International Youth Day, we are reminded of the immense potential and critical role that young people play in the development and future of Nigeria. With over 60% of Nigeria’s population under the age of 25, the country is poised to harness the energy, creativity, and resilience of its youth to drive sustainable development and humanitarian progress.
The Power of Youth in Shaping the Future
Youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are the change-makers of today. In a country as diverse and dynamic as Nigeria, young people have the power to influence significant transformation across various sectors, including education, healthcare, technology, and social justice. Their innovative spirit and adaptability are key assets in addressing the complex challenges that Nigeria faces, from economic inequality to gender-based violence and climate change.
According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Nigeria’s youth unemployment rate stood at 42.5% in 2023. This staggering figure highlights the urgent need to create more opportunities for young people to contribute to the economy and society. By tapping into the entrepreneurial potential of Nigeria’s youth, the country can unlock new avenues for growth and innovation.
Youth as Humanitarian Advocates
In the context of humanitarian development, the youth of Nigeria hold a unique position. They are often at the forefront of grassroots movements and community-driven initiatives that address local needs and challenges. Whether through volunteerism, advocacy, or entrepreneurship, young Nigerians are taking bold steps to improve the lives of those around them, particularly the most vulnerable.
For instance, over 60% of volunteer organizations working with internally displaced persons (IDPs) in northeast Nigeria are led by young people. These youth-led initiatives have been instrumental in providing relief and support to displaced communities, advocating for gender equality, and promoting peace and reconciliation in conflict-affected areas. Their efforts not only provide immediate assistance but also foster long-term resilience and community empowerment.
Education: The Foundation for Empowerment
Education is a cornerstone of development, and it is crucial that Nigeria continues to invest in the education of its young people. By equipping youth with the knowledge, skills, and tools they need, we can empower them to become active participants in the development process. Educated youth are better positioned to innovate, lead, and create solutions that address the humanitarian challenges facing their communities.
However, data from the United Nations shows that 13.2 million Nigerian children, many of whom are adolescents, are currently out of school, with a significant portion in the northern regions affected by conflict. This educational gap represents a significant barrier to development and underscores the need for targeted interventions to ensure that all youth have access to quality education.
Programs that focus on vocational training, digital literacy, and entrepreneurship are particularly important, as they provide young people with the practical skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Additionally, promoting access to education for girls and marginalized youth is essential in ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of national development.
The Role of Youth in Promoting Peace and Social Cohesion
Nigeria’s youth are also key to fostering peace and social cohesion in a country marked by ethnic, religious, and regional diversity. Young people have the ability to bridge divides and promote understanding and dialogue across different communities. By engaging in peacebuilding activities, youth can help mitigate conflict and contribute to a more stable and harmonious society.
According to the Global Peace Index, Nigeria ranks 146th out of 163 countries, reflecting the ongoing challenges related to conflict and insecurity. Youth-led peace initiatives, such as the #NotTooYoungToRun campaign, which led to the reduction of the age requirement for political office, demonstrate the powerful role that young people can play in advocating for peaceful and inclusive governance.
Moreover, youth are often more open to embracing new ideas and approaches, making them ideal ambassadors for change. Initiatives that encourage interfaith and intercultural dialogue, community service, and civic engagement are vital in building a more inclusive and peaceful Nigeria.
The call to action: supporting youth-led initiatives
To fully realize the potential of Nigeria’s youth, it is essential that we support and invest in youth-led initiatives. This includes providing access to funding, mentorship, and platforms where young people can voice their ideas and collaborate with others. Governments, NGOs, private sector organizations, and international partners all have a role to play in creating an enabling environment where youth can thrive.
Furthermore, policies that prioritize youth employment, entrepreneurship, and participation in decision-making processes are critical in ensuring that young people are not just beneficiaries of development but are also active contributors to it.
Conclusion: A Future Powered by Youth
As we celebrate International Youth Day, let us recognize and honor the vital contributions that Nigeria’s youth are making to the country’s development. Their passion, innovation, and commitment are driving forces that will shape a brighter and more prosperous future for all Nigerians.
Empowering youth with the resources, opportunities, and support they need is not just an investment in their future; it is an investment in the future of Nigeria. Together, we can create a nation where every young person has the chance to realize their full potential and contribute to the humanitarian development that will uplift communities and transform lives across the country.