The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment and sustainable development at the 2025 United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Youth Forum held in New York.
Mrs Omolara Esan, Director of Information and Public Relations in the Ministry of Youth Development, made this known in a statement on Tuesday, April 29, 2025.
Leading the Nigerian delegation, Mr Olubunmi Olusanya, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, addressed global youth leaders, policymakers, and development partners at the forum.
He emphasised the critical importance of inclusive youth participation in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in areas such as education, employment, innovation, and climate action.
He highlighted Nigeria’s strategic initiatives, including the newly launched National Youth Development Strategy 2024–2028, digital skills programmes, green entrepreneurship schemes, and robust partnerships aimed at expanding opportunities for millions of young Nigerians.
“Nigeria’s youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are the drivers of today’s innovation and resilience,” he said.
He reiterated the country’s unwavering commitment to creating an enabling environment that empowered young people to realise their full potential and contribute meaningfully to both national and global development.
As part of the commitment, the ministry convened a high-impact side event in collaboration with UN agencies and regional youth organisations, themed “Harnessing Youth Innovation for Climate Resilience and Green Jobs in Africa.”
Olusanya noted that the event showcased youth-led climate solutions and fostered dialogue between policymakers and young change-makers from across the continent.
“The forum continues to serve as a crucial platform for young people to influence the United Nations’ work and contribute meaningfully to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
“Nigeria’s active participation at this year’s forum underscores its leadership role in promoting a sustainable, youth-inclusive future,” he said.
I can’t seem to find the quoted National Youth Development Strategy 2024-2028 anywhere but it’s plastered all over the press releases. Is this a joke?