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FG Promises to Translate Youth Expectations to Actionable Policies, Tangible Change

FG Promises to Translate Youth Expectations to Actionable Policies, Tangible Change
By: Michael Mike
The Federal Government has called on the nation’s youth to come out with their expectations, promising commitment to translating their expectations into actionable policies and initiatives that drive tangible change.
The promise was made on Thursday in Abuja by the Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim at the Nigeria Youth Consultative Forum on the ‘Summit Of The Future (SOTF), a collaborative effort by the Interagency Youth Group of the United
Nations, the Network of Youth for Sustainable Initiatives and the Ministry of Youth Development,
The Minister said: “Today is not just another morning; it’s the dawn of a new era for our nation. The Summit of the Future hinges on this very room, on the power of your ideas. Today, we join hands to chart a course for
a sustainable, prosperous Nigeria led by the brilliant visions of its most vital
resource: its youth!”

She noted that the forum was more than a mere meeting, but “represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reshape and invigorate our multilateral system, addressing the challenges we face today and those on the horizon. Together, we aim to strengthen global governance and accelerate the implementation of commitments we have made, particularly those outlined in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
“Understanding the Present, Shaping the Future. The world’s landscape is rapidly evolving from climate change and digital
transformation to economic uncertainty and social justice. Our young people are at
the forefront of driving change. In Nigeria, over 60% of our population is under the
age of 25, making the youth our most valuable asset.
“Reflecting on Your Expectations. This forum is dedicated to capturing your views and expectations. What do you
envision for Nigeria? What are the pressing issues you face? How can we
collectively address these challenges to create a future where every young Nigerian
can flourish?
“Your feedback will shape our contributions to the upcoming UN Summit of the
Future, ensuring that Nigeria’s youth are heard and instrumental in the global
discourse on sustainable development. We are committed to translating your
expectations into actionable policies and initiatives that drive tangible change.”
Ibrahim noted that: “The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) offer a blueprint for a better world, but achieving these goals requires more than just governmental effort; it demands the active participation of every citizen, especially our youth. The journey towards these goals is collective, and your role as a young leader cannot be overstated.
“As we delve into today’s discussions, let us focus on how we can collaboratively
tackle issues such as quality education, decent work, climate action, gender
equality, and peace and justice. Let us explore innovative solutions and sustainable
practices that can be scaled and replicated. Let us commit to actions that are not
only visionary but also practical and inclusive.”
She admitted that: “Nigeria’s challenges are complex, but they are not insurmountable. By harnessing the power of technology, fostering entrepreneurship, and championing education and skills development, we can create a vibrant ecosystem where young Nigerians
can thrive. We must also prioritize inclusivity, ensuring that our initiatives benefit every segment of society, including marginalized and vulnerable groups.”
She appealed that: “Today, I urge you to be bold in your ideas, fearless in your advocacy, and relentless in your pursuit of a better future. This forum allows your voices to resonate and your solutions to take shape.”
The Minister called on the youth to forget yesterday’s blueprints, noting that: “Nigeria’s future is being built today! This
gathering isn’t about listening– it’s about co-creating. We need your fresh
perspectives, the grit you bring to every challenge, and the game-changing ideas
that only young minds can conjure. Together, let’s weave a future that’s resilient, inclusive, and sustainable– a Nigeria that thrives on the boundless potential of its youth.”
The United Nations Resident Coordinator, Mohamed Fall explained that the Forum was to plan ahead for the Summit of the Future in September 2024 in New York.
Fall, who was represented by the Country’s Representative of World Health Organisation, Walter Mulombo,noted that: “In a moment of growing mistrust, in which outdated structures no longer reflect today’s political and economic realities, the Summit is a chance to get back on track and re-commit to a multilateralism that delivers for everyone, everywhere.”
He explained that the Summit of the Future will build on the 2023 SDG Summit, stressing that agreements to improve global cooperation arrangements will, in turn, enable us to deliver on the existing commitments and turbocharge the 2030 Agenda.
He revealed that: “The main outcome of the Summit will be an inter-governmentally agreed and action-oriented Pact for the Future. The Pact will have five chapters: 1) sustainable development and financing for development, 2) international peace and security, 3) science, technology and innovation and digital cooperation, 4) youth and future generations, and 5) transforming global governance. Human rights, empowerment of women and girls and poverty eradication will be cross-cutting.”
He said: “The UN System in Nigeria is strongly behind the Nigerian youth. We believe in you. We trust in your innovative ideas and positive energies to accelerate the achievement of SDGs and drive transformative change in Nigeria.
“We count on you for continuous support in disseminating, explaining and building support for the Summit and helping us sustain the momentum for the major changes our multilateral system needs. Your networks and energies will be essential to the Summit’s success.”
On his part, the Country Representative of United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Dr Gifty Addico said: “Young people are the most important and valuable resource of the nation and strategic investment in their education, health, security, and overall development carries the potential for demographic dividends.”
Addico, who was represented by the Deputy Representative, Mr. Koessan Kuawu noted that: “The need for effective multilateral solutions to address the array of challenges ranging from climate change and economic instability to technological disruption and social inequalities is now more urgent than ever.”
He noted that: “This event would provide a platform for young people to discuss and collaborate towards addressing priorities of young Nigerians for the United Nations Summit of the Future in September.
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 aspiration. The UN Interagency group on Youth steadfastly stands with you, ready to champion this cause.”
FG Promises to Translate Youth Expectations to Actionable Policies, Tangible Change
News
Police arrest six officers over killing of okada rider in Lagos

Police arrest six officers over killing of okada rider in Lagos
By: Zagazola Makama
The Lagos State Police Command have arrested six of its personnel, including an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), over the killing of a commercial motorcyclist at Onosa town, Ibeju-Lekki area of the state.
Sources confirmed the development to Zagazola Makama on Saturday saying the incident occurred in the early hours of Aug. 29 when a team of policemen allegedly on illegal duty clashed with a group of okada riders.
According to the sources , the officers, led by ASP Dauda Irimia of the Division Motor Traffic Department (MTD), were attacked by motorcyclists in their large numbers.
“In their bid to ensure their safety, the ASP used his firearm, which resulted in three of the riders sustaining injuries. They were rushed to Luscent Private Hospital, Ibeju-Lekki, where one of them, Muazu Abubakar, 22, was confirmed dead,” said the sources.
The incident sparked a violent protest as youths and commercial riders blocked the Lekki–Epe expressway, disrupting traffic along the busy corridor.
The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, personally led reinforcement teams that dispersed the protesters, cleared the barricades, and restored the free flow of traffic.
He thereafter engaged youth and community leaders in dialogue to sustain peace and prevent further escalation.
Meanwhile, the ASP who fired the fatal shot and five other members of his team have been arrested and detained.
Police said a thorough investigation into the incident had commenced, adding that appropriate disciplinary measures would be taken against those found culpable.
Police arrest six officers over killing of okada rider in Lagos
News
Security forces bust child trafficking syndicate in akwa ibom, arrest five

Security forces bust child trafficking syndicate in akwa ibom, arrest five
By: Zagazola Makama
Security forces in Akwa Ibom have arrested five suspected members of a child trafficking syndicate along the Ikot Ekpene–Aba highway.
Zagazola Makama learnt from sources that detectives attached to the Criminal Surveillance Unit (CSU), while on stop-and-search duty on Aug. 28, intercepted an 18-seater Toyota Hiace bus belonging to Uwakmfom Transportation Company.
According to the sources , one of the passengers, identified as Precious Emmanuel Bassey, was found with a two-year-old girl, Glory Edet Etim, but could not give a satisfactory account of the child.
“She was immediately arrested and, upon interrogation, confessed that she was taking the child to Lagos for trafficking. She also admitted to having earlier sold another child,” said the sources.
The sources added that based on her confession, four other suspects Godspower Edet, Esther Effiong Edet, Mandu Asuquo Sampson and Eli Adolphus were arrested.
Sources said discreet investigation was ongoing to track down other members of the syndicate and recover previously trafficked children.
Security forces bust child trafficking syndicate in akwa ibom, arrest five
News
Army launches operation to rescue abducted farmers in Edo

Army launches operation to rescue abducted farmers in Edo
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of the Nigerian Army have launched a joint operation with local vigilantes to rescue two persons abducted on a farm in Amedokhian community, Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State.
Sources told Zagazola Makama that the victims, identified as Mr. Clifford Isolate and an unidentified woman, were kidnapped on the morning of Aug. 29 while working on a farm in Ukoni Amedokhian.
He said the army immediately mobilised troops to the area in coordination with local vigilantes and the Anti-Kidnapping Unit of Esan youths to secure the release of the victims.
“Our troops were deployed promptly to track and apprehend the abductors while ensuring the safety of the victims.
The sources said the operation is ongoing, and all necessary measures are being taken to ensure a successful rescue.
Army launches operation to rescue abducted farmers in Edo
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