UN, LEAP Africa urge greater youth inclusion in governance

At the NYFF @ 5 Convening in Abuja, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, LEAP Africa, and the Nigerian Youth Futures Fund have called for increased youth involvement in governance and economic decision-making. This call comes five years after the initiative began supporting youth-led organizations through funding and capacity development.

With the 2027 general election approaching, the UNODC Country Representative in Nigeria, Cheikh Ousmane Touré, emphasized that young people make up 70% of Nigeria's population and must participate in political and economic decision-making processes. He urged young Nigerians to engage in national conversations and ensure their perspectives shape the country's future.

Similarly, LEAP Africa's Executive Director, Kehinde Ayeni, stressed the importance of greater youth involvement in national discussions, highlighting the Nigerian Youth Futures Fund's role in supporting young leaders through funding and capacity development. The Fund, established in 2021, has supported various initiatives across Nigeria, reaching out to minority groups, people with disabilities, and individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Dr. Onyeche Agbiti-Douglas, the Director of the Nigerian Youth Futures Fund, criticized the stereotyping of young people and urged their inclusion in key decisions and leadership positions. He stressed that young Nigerians account for 60 to 70% of the population and should be considered as partners in progress, bringing ideas and solutions to the table.

The event also saw the unveiling of the NYFF Five-Year Impact Report, showcasing the Fund's contributions to youth development across Nigeria.