A pictorial representation of participants at the National Youth Consultative Forum for the Summit of the Future
Preceding the United Nations Summit of the Future in September 2024, the Network of Youth for Sustainable Initiative (NGYouthSDGs) joined forces with the United Nation in Nigeria, the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Nigeria, and other youth civil society organisations and networks for a National Consultative Youth Forum on the Summit of the Future.
The Summit of the Future is a high-level event that brings together world leaders, policymakers, experts, and advocates to establish a new international consensus on how to deliver a better present and safeguard the future. This rare opportunity serves as a moment to build trust and demonstrate that international cooperation can effectively achieve agreed-upon goals and address emerging threats and opportunities.
Ahead of the Summit of the Future, the National Consultative Youth Forum, which took place on 20 June 2024 at the UN House in Abuja, was organised to incorporate the voices and ideas of young Nigerians in shaping a future where young people have a say in decision-making processes. The event also provided an opportunity to call for urgent action towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), given that a significant percentage of the targets are off track and we are halfway to achieving the SDGs.
Dr Jamila Bio Ibrahim speaking at the National Youth Consultative Forum for the Summit of the Future
The event commenced with a keynote address by the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Dr Jamila Bio Ibrahim, who emphasised the effective role young people play in leading actions towards the SDGs in Nigeria. She stressed the strength and vitality of the ever-growing youth population, stating that if harnessed, it is a vital tool to bring about further transformation in Nigeria.
Mr Mohamed M. Malick Fall speaking at the National Youth Consultative Forum for the Summit of the Future
It was insightful to hear Mr Mohamed M. Malick Fall the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Nigeria share insights from the United Nations Consultations ahead of the Summit Of The Future.
Proceeding with discussions on the mental health challenges young people face in Nigeria, the stigmatisation of mental health issues, and solutions to improve mental health, young leaders also spoke on the role of inclusion, particularly the inclusion of people with disabilities.
A panel session at the National Youth Consultative Forum
An impactful panel discussion featured contributions from esteemed panellists, including Aanu Rotimi from the Center for Accountability and Inclusive Development (CAAID), Saludeen Hashim, program director of the CLEEN Foundation, Safi Bichi, senior research and MEL manager at YIAGA Africa, and Khalil N Khalil, economic adviser to the Kano state government. The panel emphasised the role of collaborative efforts between various youth generations, spanning from Generation Y to Generation Z, in driving tangible impact. Moreover, the panel provided insights into leveraging technology to advance initiatives aligned with the SDGs. The session also underscored the significance of ensuring that the voices of young people in diverse communities are integrated into important dialogues, thereby ensuring a comprehensive representation of their aspirations for the future, irrespective of their geographical locations.
In concluding the panel session, the panellists called upon the youth to actively engage in governance and to hold elected leaders accountable by advocating for the rights of young people.
As a call to action, the participants and stakeholders were tasked with taking the discussion to their various communities and institutions for implementation as preparations were made for the Summit of the Future.
Blessing Muonwe, NGYouthSDGs Volunteer representing at the National Youth Consultative Forum for the Summit of the Future, in Abuja Nigeria
It is also worth noting that in addition to the representation of NGYouthSDGs Volunteer, Blessing Muonwe at the National Youth Consultative Forum for the Summit of the Future, in Abuja Nigeria, NGYouthSDGs effectively participated in the planning and ensuring the participation of young Nigerians at the National Consultative Youth Forum on the Summit of the Future.
Our contribution to this youth consultative forum, which has provided an avenue for young Nigerians to express their views on the future they want and support the dialogue between young people, stakeholders, and government representatives, is a testament to our efforts in empowering young people with the knowledge to lead and thrive while taking actions for the SDGs. We look forward to the Summit of the Future and its impact on delivering a better present and safeguarding the future.