By Bilkis Abdulraheem Lawal
As the world marks International Youth Day today, Nigerians from all walks of life are reflecting on the urgent need to empower young people as agents of change, leaders, and drivers of sustainable development.
International Youth Day was first adopted in 1998 during the World Conference of Ministers for Youth in Portugal and later endorsed by the United Nations General Assembly on December 17, 1999.
The UN defines youth as those between ages 15 and 24, while Nigeria’s Youth Population Policy through the National Bureau of Statistics places the age range at 15 to 35.
This year’s theme, “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond,” highlights the role of young people in turning global ambitions into practical, community-based solutions. According to the UN, youth are vital partners in translating and implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within local contexts, aligning them with national and international commitments.
In Nigeria, where youths make up about 70% of the population, the challenge is pressing. Data from the National Bureau of Statistics shows that 8.6% of those aged 15–24 were unemployed in the third quarter of 2023, while the International Labour Organisation estimates youth unemployment at 5.5% in 2024.
For many Lagos residents, the path forward is clear.
“We need affordable and quality education for a better tomorrow,” said Mr. Jamil Adigun, a community member who believes education is the strongest tool for empowerment. Mrs. Janet Esosa echoed the sentiment, calling on government at all levels to invest more in young people’s future.
A Small business owners say creating an enabling environment is also critical. Miss Mary Kodjo, a fashion designer, appealed to government to harmonise taxes and ensure uninterrupted power supply. “If business owners can thrive, they will employ more youths,” she said.
Experts agree that youth participation must go beyond economic empowerment. Dr. Airat Bakare, a senior lecturer at the Department of Anatomy, University of Lagos, described young people as “critical partners who bring creativity, insight, and deep community ties that bridge the gap between policy and practice.”
Dr. Bakare called for skill acquisition to be embedded into the school curriculum so students graduate with both academic knowledge and a marketable skill. She also urged greater youth involvement in politics and governance.
“Let the youth be involved in decision-making, politics, and leadership so they can learn how to lead rightly,” she said, adding that mentorship remains a vital compass for guiding young people toward success.
According to the United Nations, more than 65% of SDG targets are linked to local governance and youth engagement. Experts say this makes it imperative for local and regional governments being closest to the people, to create inclusive policies, allocate resources, and establish platforms for youth participation in planning and decision-making.
As the celebrations continue, one message resonates across communities: empowering Nigeria’s youth is an investment in their future and the nation’s survival and progress.
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