Harnessing Youth Power: A Panacea for Soaring Youth Unemployment

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In the ever-evolving landscape of socio-economic challenges, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) have emerged as powerful agents of change. With a clarion call for action, CSOs are championing the imperative need to engage the youth in agribusiness and various sectors as a viable solution to the pressing issue of youth unemployment. This visionary step is underscored by the inherent potential of the youth to invigorate economies, bolster sustainable development, and ensure a prosperous future. This article delves into the resonating message delivered by CSOs, highlighting the importance of youth engagement, the role of the government, and the prospects of a prosperous nation.

The CSOs’ Call to Action

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Under the collaborative banner of International Alert, Africa Youth Growth Foundation (AYGF), and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), CSOs have embarked on a mission to drive change. This mission was manifest during a thought-provoking road walk with the theme ‘Youth Innovation for Human and Planetary Health. Green Skills for Youth’ – a clarion call that reverberated in the wake of the 2023 International Youth Day. The resonance of this theme underscores the fundamental role that youth play in shaping the trajectory of our planet’s health and well-being.

Youth Inclusion in Governance: A Need of the Hour

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In an increasingly interconnected world, the significance of involving the youth in governance cannot be overstated. Dr. Arome Salifu, the Executive Director of AYGF, acknowledged the infusion of youthful vigor into governmental appointments. However, the call for greater inclusion remains. Dr. Salifu articulated, “We believe strongly that a lot could be done in terms of youth inclusion in governance. There are a lot of opportunities to still include young people in board appointments, and other positions.” Recognizing the power of youth perspective, he emphasized that true good governance necessitates the active participation of the largest demographic segment.

Unlocking Prosperity through Climate-Smart Agriculture

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The heart of CSOs’ plea lies in the remarkable potential of climate-smart agriculture. As Dr. Salifu emphatically stated, “The biggest youth green skill is in agriculture.” This sentiment echoes a global truth – climate-smart agriculture is a potent engine for economic growth, employment generation, and poverty reduction. With over 70 percent of the nation’s population being youth, embracing the vast opportunities in this sector becomes imperative. By harnessing the synergy between youth, innovation, and agriculture, the nation can catapult itself into a prosperous future.

Stemming the Brain Drain: Investing in Economic Activities

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The issue of brain drain is a thorn that must be extracted from the fabric of national development. In response, the CSOs advocate for investment in competitive economic activities that resonate with the youth. Sunday Jimoh, Senior Project Officer of International Alert, underscored the need for youth voices to be heard in decision-making spheres. By nurturing a collaborative environment, where the concerns of the youth are acknowledged and acted upon, governments can engender a sense of belonging and curtail the temptation of seeking greener pastures abroad.

Fostering Youth-Centered Approaches: A Holistic Perspective

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Aisha Dahiru, the Youth Focal person at IOM, emphasized the importance of youth-centered approaches across multiple fronts. She highlighted the intertwining elements of policy-making, innovation, entrepreneurship, and the growing youth population – a staggering 70 percent of Nigeria’s populace. The imperative lies in fostering an environment where migration is a choice, not a necessity born out of desperation. With a laser focus on entrepreneurship, innovation, and policy frameworks that encourage growth, youth engagement can be a powerful catalyst for change.

Tackling the ‘Japa Syndrome’: A Call to Action

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The phenomenon of the ‘Japa syndrome’ is a pressing concern that demands immediate attention. Youth embarking on perilous journeys in search of elusive opportunities risk falling prey to modern-day slavery, drug trafficking, and even terrorism. Aisha Dahiru stressed that while migration is a legitimate aspiration, the channels chosen must be safe and legal. The CSOs are diligently raising awareness about the perils of irregular migration, endeavoring to guide the youth towards productive, secure, and promising paths.

Conclusion: A Vision for Youth-Driven Progress

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In the tapestry of national development, the youth are the vibrant threads that weave the fabric of progress. Civil Society Organizations are standing at the forefront, advocating for a future that is shaped by youth engagement, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development. The government’s collaboration with these CSOs is pivotal, for together they can craft policies, programs, and projects that resonate with the youth’s aspirations and dreams. A prosperous, secure, and thriving nation hinges on the active participation of its youth. Let us embrace this vision, harness the power of youth, and forge a path towards a brighter tomorrow.