I Have Volunteered to Educate Youth to Participate as Active Citizens – Ejike Ogba

Growing up, I noticed a lot of wrong things happening around me. There were comparisons and contrasts with how things could be better—realizing that I have the responsibility to impact my immediate society made my decision to have an interest in SDGs. Inclusiveness in policy and the working system resonates with me more. 

As someone who cares so much about inclusiveness policy, working hard to get young people to understand that their vote counts make me happy. I have worked in making 1800 people register for their permanent voters’ cards in Lagos and Umuahia Abia state, respectively. I have also been able to educate young people on the issue of sexual and reproductive health, safe sex and menstrual hygiene. The feedback I have received from participating in SDGs remains heartwarming and inspires me to do more at all times.

Sometimes working on localizing SDGs is not a smooth sailing process. The attitude of some local communities could discourage you from continuing. However, looking at the impacts one is making or going to make helps to fuel back the energy to do more. Also, people asking about what they would gain is another limiting factor for SDG programs and projects. The issue of insecurity and language barrier also exists in some communities.

I have learnt in my journey: “If you want to be part of something beneficial to humanity, don’t put first what you will gain; rather, be more concerned about the impact you are going to make in people’s lives.” Being intentional and having a clear focus continue to widen the path of opportunity for me. For other young people, strive to be intentional about creating change and impacting your community.

Ejike Ogba is a Youth Champion with Nigeria Youth SDGs Network