Government should do more to empower the youths
The United Nations has picked as its theme for the 2026 International Youth Day being observed today, ‘Different Contexts, Common Aspirations.’ With a focus on global solidarity, it is disappointing that there are no government activities around such agenda in Nigeria. Yet, according to the UN population prediction, by the year 2050, three of the 10 most populous countries in the world will be in Africa with more than a quarter of them in Nigeria. Against the background that population growth is already stretching the few infrastructure facilities in the country and contributing in large measure to the poor standards of living, there can be no better time than now to reflect on the plight of our young people.
For decades, the nation has been unable to provide sufficient jobs for its growing population. As a result, millions of young Nigerians are consistently exposed to large scale economic hardship and poverty. In choosing the theme for this year, the UN states that wherever they may be across the world, young people face common pressures, including limited access to quality education, barriers to decent work, unequal digital connectivity, climate change, social exclusion, and concerns about their mental well-being. “Yet young people in these countries are also leading innovative solutions through entrepreneurship, digital technologies, community action, climate adaptation, and social innovation,” the UN stated. “By investing in youth everywhere and supporting those facing the greatest barriers, the international community can help ensure that no young person is left behind.”
