The United Nations Population Fund, UNFPA, has reiterated its commitment to promoting the rights of young people in Nigeria by empowering them with knowledge and skills.
It said the empowerment will enable them to make informed decisions as well as realise their full potential and contribute to economic and social transformation.
UNFPA Resident Representative in Nigeria, Dr. Gifty Addico stated this at the Global Forum on Adolescents National event in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.
Dr. Addico explained that a clarion call was made to strengthen the linkage between education and health and other sectors in alignment with an effective multisectoral approach to programming for adolescents and young people, which UNFPA has answered the call.
She said; “Today marks the culmination of all these efforts with the unveiling of the “1.8 Billion Campaign”, a clarion call to action that underscores the essence of our youth’s aspirations, voices, inclusion, and participation. Adolescents and young people under 25 years which make up about 63% of our nation’s population are a key focus group for UNFPA mandate areas. This cuts across our three transformative goals of zero preventable maternal deaths, zero unmet need for family planning, and zero tolerance for gender-based violence and other harmful practices.”
“I keenly anticipate the commitment pledges from the Government and our esteemed partners today. This isn’t mere rhetoric but a heartfelt promise to our Nigerian youths, underlining our collective commitment to their aspirations. As we delve deep into today’s deliberations, let’s reaffirm our collective resolve: Every voice is invaluable. Every dream holds weight. Every youth deserves an opportunity. Here’s to forging a future that acknowledges, celebrates, and nurtures every young individual’s aspirations. UNFPA steadfastly stands with you, ready to champion this cause,” Dr. Addico explained.
Globally, there are about 1.8 billion adolescents and young people( ages 10-24), this subpopulation constitutes a chunk of productive demography but often faces challenges.
Speaking on this, the Permanent Secretary, of Nigeria’s Ministry of Health, Daju Kacholom gave the assurance that Nigeria would prioritise addressing health and economic challenges confronting the young population.
Kacholom said; “It is a unique stage of human development and an important time for laying the foundations of good health. We are gathered here today to mark the Nigeria national event because Nigeria recognises the unique place of adolescents in our demographic composition. Nigeria prioritises the special challenges of adolescent health and well-being. The projected population of Nigeria states that adolescents (10-19 years) constitute 22% of Nigeria’s population while young people (age 10-24 years) constitute about a third (32%). The 2021-2025 National Policy on Adolescent and Young People, states that Young people in Nigeria are diverse and heterogeneous in terms of socio-demographic characteristics, health needs, social and health vulnerabilities hence the need for special attention to this demography. It is on this basis that the Federal Ministry of Health in collaboration with UNFPA, youth-led organisations such as Education as a Vaccine (EVA) and PLAN International organised this national event.”
Similarly, the Director of Business Development and Partnership, Plan International Nigeria, Dr. Oji Ogbureke noted that the organisation remained committed to empowering young people with a focus on adolescent girls.
Dr Ogbureke said; “Our goal is crystal clear; to empower 20 million girls. Our dedication to the 1.8 Billion campaign revolves around this ambition. We are thrilled to be part of this journey alongside our partners in Nigeria and across the globe. Together, we aim to amplify the voices of adolescents and young people on issues that pertain to their health, well-being, and overall development. Our pledge remains steadfast. We reaffirm our commitment to this process and will continue to collaborate with partners, adolescents, and all young people to ensure that their voices are not just heard but also acted upon. We will tirelessly work toward policy reforms and legal changes, advocating for the implementation of existing ones, all in alignment with the spirit of the commitment.”
Other highlights of the event were panel discussion, drama, and dance presentation.
The Global Forum for Adolescents is aimed at increasing awareness of issues of adolescents and sustaining financial commitment to adolescent-friendly services towards achieving Sustainable Development Goals.
