The Federal Government of Nigeria reiterated its strong commitment to youth empowerment and sustainable development at the 2025 UN ECOSOC Youth Forum in New York

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to youth empowerment and the pursuit of sustainable development on the global stage at the 2025 United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Youth Forum held in New York.

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Mrs Omolara Esan, Director of Information and Public Relations in the Ministry of Youth Development, conveyed this commitment in a statement released on Tuesday, April 29, 2025.

Leading the Nigerian delegation at the forum, Mr Olubunmi Olusanya, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, addressed an audience of global youth leaders, policymakers, and key development partners.

He underscored the critical importance of ensuring inclusive youth participation in the global efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in vital areas such as education, employment, innovation, and climate action.

Mr Olusanya highlighted Nigeria’s strategic and forward-thinking initiatives aimed at empowering its young population.

These include the recently launched National Youth Development Strategy 2024–2028, comprehensive digital skills development programmes, innovative green entrepreneurship schemes, and robust partnerships designed to expand opportunities for millions of young Nigerians.

Nigeria’s youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are the drivers of today’s innovation and resilience,” said Mr Olubunmi Olusanya, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth Development.

“Nigeria’s youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are the drivers of today’s innovation and resilience,” Mr Olusanya emphasized, conveying the government’s belief in the transformative potential of its young citizens.

He reiterated Nigeria’s steadfast commitment to fostering an enabling environment where young people are empowered to realize their full potential and make meaningful contributions to both national and global development agendas.

As a significant part of its engagement at the forum, the Nigerian delegation, through the Ministry of Youth Development, convened a high-impact side event in collaboration with various UN agencies and regional youth organizations.

The event, themed “Harnessing Youth Innovation for Climate Resilience and Green Jobs in Africa,” served as a platform to showcase innovative climate solutions spearheaded by young Africans and to foster crucial dialogue between policymakers and young change-makers from across the continent.

Mr Olusanya affirmed the significance of the ECOSOC Youth Forum, stating that it “continues to serve as a crucial platform for young people to influence the United Nations’ work and contribute meaningfully to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.”

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He concluded by emphasizing Nigeria’s proactive role on the global stage, stating, “Nigeria’s active participation at this year’s forum underscores its leadership role in promoting a sustainable, youth-inclusive future.”