Youth minister Ayodele Olawande has assured Nigerian youths that the ministry is committed to ensuring their voices are reflected in national policies and programmes.

Mr Olawande gave the assurance on Monday during a youth dialogue with the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Fall, to commemorate International Youth Day 2025, according to a statement.

“Youth voices are already shaping government policy. Today’s dialogue is not just about speeches; it’s about listening. The ministry is here to hear directly from you, and I assure you, your voices will be reflected in our policies and programmes,” Mr Olawande said.

He called on young Nigerians to take the lead in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals as the world approaches the 2030 deadline. The minister applauded the creativity, innovation, and resilience of Nigerian youths who are already localising the SDGs in their communities.

He cited inspiring examples of youth-led initiatives, ranging from grassroots climate advocacy to tech-driven solutions in education and healthcare.

Mr Olawande also lauded international role models such as UN deputy secretary-general Amina Mohammed and UN Global Ambassador for Peace Maryam Bukar, highlighting how Nigerians continued to influence global frameworks.

Reaffirming the federal government’s support, he noted that youth innovation, enterprise, and partnerships were critical to national development.

“The SDGs are real commitments to people and communities, not just targets on paper. The time for youth action on SDGs, and beyond, is now. Nigeria’s youth will lead the way,” he declared.

During a question-and-answer session, the minister reiterated that youth perspectives were already influencing government policy.

He emphasised the need for sustained engagement between young people, the government, and development partners to achieve more inclusive and impactful outcomes.

In his remarks, Mr Fall reaffirmed the UN’s dedication to partnering with young people, describing them as “the future happening now”.

He commended Mr Olawande for championing youth empowerment and celebrated the global achievements of young Nigerians, including Maryam Hassan’s recent appointment as a UN Global Peace Advocate.

Highlighting Nigeria’s youthful population as a unique asset, Mr Fall stressed that young people were vital to driving peace, development, climate solutions, and justice.

“Youth are not just beneficiaries, they are partners and leaders. You need to speak up, show up, and lead on. The world is watching Nigeria’s next generation,” Mr Fall said.

(NAN)