NYCN Marks International Youth Day 2025, Calls for Greater Inclusion of Young People in Governance
The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has joined the global community to celebrate International Youth Day 2025, with the theme “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond.”
In a message signed by Hon. Lolade Shonibare, Chairman of the National Advisory Council of NYCN, the Council highlighted the remarkable contributions of young people to sustainable development, social justice, and innovation both locally and globally.
The statement emphasized that youth are not only the leaders of tomorrow but also the changemakers of today, actively driving progress toward the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It recognized their efforts in areas such as sustainable living, climate action, human rights advocacy, and entrepreneurship.
“Let’s harness the energy and creativity of young people to create a better world,” the statement urged, calling on stakeholders to support youth-led initiatives, provide resources and mentorship, and amplify youth voices.
On this occasion, the NYCN expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritizing youth in his Renewed Hope Agenda, especially in education, sports, and economic reforms. The statement commended the introduction of the National Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) for tertiary students, as well as Nigeria’s recent sporting triumphs – including the back-to-back victories of the Super Falcons and the National Basketball Team in African competitions.
However, the Council also appealed to the President to further include young people in cabinet positions and key roles across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
“Build the Youth, Build the Nation,” Hon. Shonibare concluded, reaffirming the NYCN’s commitment to empowering Nigerian youth as active partners in national development.
