A gathering of young minds, a fusion of passion and purpose, unfolded at the International Youth Day (IYD) event in Abuja. This gathering was an offshoot of our collaboration with NGYouthSDGs and Oxfam in Nigeria to celebrate International Youth Day 2024. The two-day event, held on August 12th and 13th, embraced the theme: “Youth as Catalyst: Transforming Food Systems, Youth Innovation for Human and Planetary Health.” It emphasized the crucial role young people play in tackling global challenges, especially in crafting sustainable solutions critical for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The summit drew a diverse group of enthusiastic young Nigerians eager to explore opportunities for a sustainable future. The event was a whirlwind of inspiration, innovation, and empowerment. Participants engaged in thought-provoking keynote speeches and interactive discussions that sparked passionate debates and generated online buzz surrounding progressive ideas and actions. They delved into topics such as renewable energy, gender and climate justice, sustainable policy implementation, and the role of youth in harnessing digital technology to raise awareness and advocate for sustainable development goals. Joseph Ibrahim, Programme Manager at the Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation (GIFSEP), emphasised the urgent need for intergenerational collaboration. He noted that many leaders often underestimate the contributions of youth in governance and development. Ibrahim stated, “We’ve had a head of state who was 28 years old, but that seems nearly impossible now. The disconnect we observe stems from a lack of a mutually beneficial relationship between the government and young people. We must begin to strengthen that relationship.”
Additionally, the Youth Spotlight Award and the Oxfam Green Challenge awards were standout moments of the event, celebrating the creativity and ingenuity of young Nigerians. Participants who demonstrated a strong sense of community and intellectual engagement were awarded various prizes. The event provided opportunities for networking with experts, mentors, and fellow youth activists, serving as a platform for collaborations and partnerships that lay the foundation for future sustainable initiatives.
As the summit concluded, it was evident that participants had been inspired, igniting a spark of youth innovation. The IYD event was more than just a meeting; it was a powerful testament to the potential of Nigerian youth to foster a sustainable and equitable future.