UNODC and LEAP Africa Promote Youth Governance Inclusion

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), LEAP Africa, and the Nigerian Youth Futures Fund urged for greater youth inclusion in governance and economic decision-making at the NYFF @ 5 Convening in Abuja. This event marked five years of supporting youth-led organizations across Nigeria through funding and capacity development.

UNODC Country Representative in Nigeria, Cheikh Ousmane Touré, highlighted that young people make up 70 percent of Nigeria's population and must be included in political and economic discussions, especially with the 2027 general elections approaching. Touré called on young Nigerians to engage actively in national conversations to ensure their perspectives shape the country's future.

LEAP Africa’s Executive Director, Kehinde Ayeni, emphasized the need for increased awareness of youth rights and responsibilities in nation-building. The Nigerian Youth Futures Fund, established in 2021, has supported 22,000 Nigerians through various initiatives, including direct grants and training for social change.