The United Nations, together with Nigerian civil‑society group LEAP Africa and the Nigerian Youth Futures Fund, issued a joint appeal urging the country’s leaders to broaden youth participation in both governance and economic decision‑making.
The three organisations stressed that young Nigerians must be given a meaningful seat at the table as the nation confronts challenges ranging from unemployment to climate change, arguing that inclusive policies are essential for sustainable development.
LEAP Africa, a youth‑focused advocacy network, highlighted the demographic reality that roughly 60 percent of Nigeria’s population is under the age of 25, making the country one of the world’s youngest societies.
According to the statement, the Nigerian Youth Futures Fund, which supports entrepreneurship and skills development for young people, will work with government agencies to create mechanisms that ensure youth voices are reflected in budget allocations and legislative agendas.
The UN, LEAP Africa and the Youth Futures Fund called on federal, state and local authorities to adopt concrete measures—such as dedicated youth advisory councils and transparent procurement processes—to translate the appeal into actionable reforms.
<small>Source: Punch Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>