The Nigerian Youth proves that anything can be achieved through shared dedication and commitment to fostering change. Together, change is possible, and youths who are drivers of change must continue to be supported and celebrated. This statement made by the Head of the Political Section, Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in Nigeria, Mr. Matthias Dold was one of the major highlights of the close-out event for the “Empowering Youth Civil Societies to Build Stronger Communities in Nigeria” project. Hosted successfully by the Network of Youth for Sustainable Initiative (NGYouthSDGs) and funded by the Embassy of the Federa Republicg of Germany at the Conventional Hall, Barcelona Hotels, Abuja, this event marked the culmination of a transformative journey that empowered young civil society organisations (CSOs) and young innovators to lead climate resilience initiatives. From capacity building to seed funding for climate solutions, the project reinforced the critical role of young people in shaping Nigeria’s environmental future.
A Celebration of Impact and Innovation
The event opened with a welcome address from Mr. Joshua Alade, Executive Director of NGYouthSDGs, who highlighted the growth of youth inclusion in climate action and the significance of sustained partnerships. He also noted the significance of seed funding in scaling climate solutions and appreciated the German Embassy’s support in advancing climate resilience initiatives. Representing the German Embassy, Mr. Matthias Dold, on the other hand, reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to youth-led climate action and commended participants for their resilience. He expressed hope for a more sustainable Nigeria and stressed the need for stronger collaboration between stakeholders to address environmental challenges.
Transforming Ideas into Action
A detailed project impact presentation by Ms. Opeyemi Ogundeji, Programmes Manager at NGYouthSDGs, showcased key achievements:
– The launch of the Sustainable Innovation Lab (SIL), providing mentorship and funding opportunities.
– Recruitment of 12 youth innovators, streamlined to six finalists, with four receiving seed grants.
– Comprehensive training on Nigeria’s National Adaptation Plan (NAP) and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
– Community-led step-down training across Kaduna, Nasarawa, Ondo, Delta, and Enugu.
– The development of Local Adaptation Plans (LAPAs) to address climate challenges at the grassroots level.
Launch of the Case Study, LAPA Document and Presentation of Seed Funding.
Mr Matthias Dold officially launched the Case Study on the Innovator’s Journey and Impact. This publication highlights the success of the Sustainable Innovation Lab (SIL) and provides a roadmap for future youth-led climate initiatives. Seed Grants were also awarded to the top four innovators to help scale their projects. Fatima Kabir of Greenium Eco secured first place for her affordable and energy-efficient sustainable cooking solution, Samson Umahonlen of Growth Agric Ventures Ltd secured second place for his Agri-tech startup that converts agricultural waste into organic fertiliser, in third place is Joy Uchenabo for Greenshift Tech, which promotes clean cooking to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and in fourth place is Sayedi Mohammed of Greenlite Solutions repurposing plastic waste into eco-friendly bags.
Additionally, representatives from Kaduna, Nasarawa, Ondo, and Enugu States presented their Local Adaptation Plan of Action (LAPA). These plans, developed through community engagement, aim to:
- Improve waste management through community-led weekly waste disposal
checks.
- Mitigate flooding risks and improve water management strategies.
- Encourage government and private sector involvement to ensure sustainable
infrastructure development.
A panel discussion on Youth Engagement in Climate Policy
The panelists explored ways youth can actively shape climate policies, implement grassroots solutions, and contribute to ongoing initiatives. Key points included:
- Leveraging digital platforms for climate awareness:
Ms. Othman Amina, an environmentalist and digital content creator, shared how she uses social media to educate the public about climate change and increase awareness. - Overcoming challenges and driving community engagement:
Mr. Ayodeji Omilabu, a youth representative from Enugu, emphasised the need for localised adaptation plans to address specific environmental challenges. He highlighted how innovative community-based projects are creating sustainable solutions. - Tackling deforestation and waste management issues:
Ms. Blessing Ekwere highlighted how deforestation for charcoal production and poor waste management contribute to climate risks. She urged stakeholders to hold regular consultations and implement sustainable waste management solutions.
Stakeholder Engagement and Climate Policy Recommendations
Discussions on stakeholder engagement and environmental impact highlighted:
- The role of national states as charcoal suppliers, leading to deforestation and
negative agricultural effects.
- The lack of inclusion of people with disabilities and secondary school students
in climate policies.
- Water scarcity issues continue to impact agricultural production.
Key recommendations included:
- Sustained youth engagement in climate policy.
- Increased investment in youth innovation and mentorship programs.
- Greater private sector involvement in climate mitigation efforts.
The event concluded with closing remarks from Ms. Oloruntobi Adejare, Communications Manager at NGYouthSDGs, who emphasised the need for sustained engagement, investment in youth innovation, and greater private sector involvement in climate action.
