In line with our commitment to youth development, we participated in the High-level Youth Engagement Summit organised by Youth Hub Africa and ActionAid, which took place on Friday, August 30, 2024, in Abuja, Nigeria.
This summit served as a vital platform for youth leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to converge and discuss the future of youth participation in socio-economic development within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
One of the primary concerns raised by participants was the difficulty young individuals encounter in obtaining quality healthcare services. Many participants shared personal experiences that underscored the systemic barriers to accessing necessary medical care, which disproportionately affect the youth demographic. This lack of access not only jeopardises their health but also stifles their potential for personal and professional growth.
Additionally, the summit shed light on the following issues facing young people in Abuja, FCT:
- Increased level of insecurity, particularly the prevalence of kidnapping. This pervasive threat has created an environment of fear and uncertainty, further exacerbating the challenges faced by young people in their daily lives and limiting their opportunities for education and employment.
- Discrimination faced by women in the housing market: Several participants voiced their frustration regarding landlords who refuse to rent to single women, often citing outdated stereotypes and requiring proof of marital status, such as husbands’ or wedding certificates. This practice not only infringes on women’s rights but also restricts their independence and ability to secure safe living conditions.
- Rise in Internet Fraud: Participants expressed their worries about the normalization of such activities among youth, stemming from economic desperation and a lack of viable job opportunities. This phenomenon, coupled with the “Japa” mentality where young individuals seek to emigrate in search of better prospects, reflects the broader socioeconomic challenges facing the nation. The high poverty levels have compelled many to pursue risky and unethical paths in hopes of achieving financial stability.
The summit provided a crucial forum for participants to articulate the challenges specific to their respective area councils and communities.
The summit featured a comprehensive panel discussion titled “Exploring the Impact of Unemployment, Insecurity, and Youth Challenges in Grassroots Communities.” Esteemed panelists, including Yahaya Soje Musa, Gladys Emmanuel, Ambassador Richard Ubor, Olubumni Labiyi, and Morenikeji Olaniran, an NGYouthSDGs Associate, engaged in a robust dialogue addressing critical issues affecting six area councils within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The discussion encompassed a range of topics, including poverty, gender-based violence, unemployment, and the resultant youth frustration that has manifested in increased incidences of theft, kidnapping, and overall insecurity in the region.
Yahaya Soje Musa, Chairman of the First Line Charitable Organization, emphasised the importance of community empowerment, asserting that while the government plays a crucial role, it cannot address all the needs of the youth. He urged young people to take initiative and proactively acquire skills that will enhance their employability. Yahaya pointed out that the persistently high levels of unemployment in Nigeria necessitate a shift in mindset among the youth, encouraging them to seek self-sufficiency through skill development.
Morenikeji Olaniran, a youth Associate at NGYouthSDGs, brought attention to pressing issues in her community, including the alarming rates of out-of-school youth, teenage pregnancy, and mental health challenges among young adults. She pointed to a lack of parental involvement and responsibility as contributing factors to these challenges. Morenikejimi noted that societal financial expectations placed on young adults often lead to negative outcomes, including increased incidents of teenage pregnancy, engagement in fraudulent activities, and other forms of crime.
The summit concluded with participants sharing their reflections on the various sessions. Key takeaways included:
- Empowerment through Skill Development: There is a consensus on the need for youth to actively seek skill development opportunities to enhance their employability and reduce dependency on government support.
- Addressing Gender-Based Violence: The urgent need for targeted interventions to combat stereotypes and violence against marginalized groups was emphasized, highlighting the role of CSOs and NGOs in driving these initiatives.
- Youth Participation in Governance: The importance of including young voices in policy-making processes was underscored, with calls for the government to create platforms for youth engagement.
- Educational Initiatives: Successful educational programs that effectively address the specific needs of young people are crucial in ensuring their holistic development and preparing them for the challenges of the future.
This summit, organised by Youth Hub Africa and Action Aid, reflects the incredible work of youth CSOs in creating forums that encourage young people to speak up. At NGYouthSDGs, we recognise the power of youth in shaping a better society. That’s why we support youth groups and young leaders in participating in key decision-making processes for a better Nigeria.
