shot of a group of young people holding a community event, created with generative ai
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment and sustainable development during the 2025 United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Youth Forum held in New York.
Mrs. Omolara Esan, Director of Information and Public Relations at the Ministry of Youth Development, announced this in a statement on Tuesday.
Leading the Nigerian delegation, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, addressed global youth leaders, policymakers, and development partners at the event.
He underscored the importance of inclusive youth participation in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in education, employment, innovation, and climate action.
Olusanya highlighted Nigeria’s key initiatives, including the National Youth Development Strategy 2024–2028, digital skills training, green entrepreneurship programmes, and cross-sector partnerships to enhance opportunities for young Nigerians.
“Youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow—they are the innovators and change-makers of today,” he said.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to creating an enabling environment that empowers young people to realise their full potential and contribute meaningfully to national and global development.
The Ministry also hosted a high-impact side event in partnership with UN agencies and regional youth organisations, themed “Harnessing Youth Innovation for Climate Resilience and Green Jobs in Africa.”
Olusanya said the event spotlighted youth-led climate solutions and fostered dialogue between policymakers and young innovators from across the continent.
“The ECOSOC Youth Forum continues to serve as a vital platform for youth engagement in shaping the United Nations’ agenda,” he added. “Nigeria’s active participation this year further cements its leadership role in building a sustainable, youth-inclusive future.”
