The federal government’s planned Youth Confab presents a unique opportunity for Nigeria’s young leaders to shape the nation’s future. As preparations unfold, it’s crucial for youth bodies and leaders to develop a unified position paper, addressing pressing concerns and harnessing the potential of Nigeria’s largest demographic. This article outlines key agenda items for Youth Peace and Security, Education Reform, and Economic Empowerment.

Youth Peace and Security: A Priority Agenda

The United Nations Security Council Resolution 2250 emphasizes youth participation in maintaining peace and security. Nigeria must prioritize implementing the Youth Peace and Security Charter, ensuring young people’s voices are heard. Key discussion points include:

1. Participation: Ensure youth involvement in decision-making processes.
2. Protection: Safeguard young civilians’ lives and human rights.
3. Prevention: Empower youth to prevent violence and promote tolerance.
4. Partnership: Engage youth in peacebuilding strategies and community development.
5. Disengagement and Reintegration: Provide opportunities for youth affected by conflict.

Education Reform: An African-Focused Curriculum

Nigeria’s current curriculum fails to address the nation’s unique challenges and cultural heritage. We need an African-focused curriculum that produces fit-for-purpose youths. This entails:

1. Domesticating education to meet local needs.
2. Incorporating African history, culture, and values.
3. Fostering critical thinking, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
4. Enhancing vocational training and skills development.

Economic Empowerment: Job Creation and Entrepreneurship

Unemployment plagues Nigeria’s youth. To stimulate economic growth:

1. Develop initiatives for job creation and entrepreneurship.
2. Provide access to funding, mentorship, and training.
3. Promote innovation hubs and incubators.
4. Encourage public-private partnerships for youth development.

Healthcare and Wellbeing: A Neglected Priority

Youth healthcare requires urgent attention:

1. Improve access to quality healthcare services.
2. Address mental health concerns and stigma.
3. Promote healthy lifestyles and disease prevention.

Nigeria’s Youth Confab must be more than a symbolic gesture. It’s a chance for young leaders to drive meaningful change. We urge the federal government to:

1. Ensure inclusive representation of youth organizations.
2. Provide a clear agenda and actionable outcomes.
3. Commit to implementing the Youth Peace and Security Charter.

As Nigeria’s youth, we must seize this opportunity to shape our future. Let’s work together to create a brighter, more peaceful, and prosperous nation.

To federal government:
– Establish a youth-led steering committee to oversee Confab preparations.
– Ensure participation of diverse youth organizations and leaders.

To youth leaders:
– Develop a unified position paper addressing key agenda items.
– Engage in strategic meetings and advocacy efforts.

Join the conversation. Share your thoughts. Demand action.

Let’s make Nigeria’s Youth Confab a catalyst for transformative change.

Signed:
Rt. Hon. Adebogun Hassan Adedayo (DayoSense)
Speaker, 4th Assembly, Youth Assembly of Nigeria, Lagos State Chapter.