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The United Nations Population Fund, UNFPA, has reiterated its dedication to selling the rights of younger folks in Nigeria by empowering them with data and expertise.

It mentioned the empowerment will allow them to make knowledgeable selections in addition to notice their full potential and contribute to financial and social transformation.

UNFPA Resident Representative in Nigeria, Dr. Gifty Addico acknowledged this on the Global Forum on Adolescents National occasion in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.

Dr. Addico defined {that a} clarion name was made to strengthen the linkage between training and well being and different sectors in alignment with an efficient multisectoral method to programming for adolescents and younger folks, which UNFPA has answered the decision.

She mentioned; “Today marks the culmination of all these efforts with the unveiling of the “1.8 Billion Campaign, a clarion call to action that underscores the essence of our youth’s aspirations, voices, inclusion, and participation. Adolescents and young people under 25 years which make up about 63% of our nation’s population are a key focus group for UNFPA mandate areas. This cuts across our three transformative goals of zero preventable maternal deaths, zero unmet need for family planning, and zero tolerance for gender-based violence and other harmful practices.”

“I keenly anticipate the commitment pledges from the Government and our esteemed partners today. This isn’t mere rhetoric but a heartfelt promise to our Nigerian youths, underlining our collective commitment to their aspirations. 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 aspirations. UNFPA steadfastly stands with you, ready to champion this cause,”Dr. Addico defined.

Globally, there are about 1.8 billion adolescents and younger folks( ages 10-24), this subpopulation constitutes a bit of productive demography however usually faces challenges.

Speaking on this, the Permanent Secretary, of Nigeria’s Ministry of Health, Daju Kacholom gave the peace of mind that Nigeria would prioritise addressing well being and financial challenges confronting the younger inhabitants.

Kacholom mentioned; “It is a unique stage of human development and an important time for laying the foundations of good health. We are gathered here today to mark the Nigeria national event because Nigeria recognises the unique place of adolescents in our demographic composition. Nigeria prioritises the special challenges of adolescent health and well-being. The projected population of Nigeria states that adolescents (10-19 years) constitute 22% of Nigeria’s population while young people (age 10-24 years) constitute about a third (32%). The 2021-2025 National Policy on Adolescent and Young People, states that Young people in Nigeria are diverse and heterogeneous in terms of socio-demographic characteristics, health needs, social and health vulnerabilities hence the need for special attention to this demography. It is on this basis that the Federal Ministry of Health in collaboration with UNFPA, youth-led organisations such as Education as a Vaccine (EVA) and PLAN International organized this national event.”

Similarly, the Director of Business Development and Partnership, Plan International Nigeria, Dr. Oji Ogbureke famous that the organisation remained dedicated to empowering younger folks with a give attention to adolescent women.

Dr Ogbureke mentioned; “Our goal is crystal clear; to empower 20 million girls. Our dedication to the 1.8 Billion campaign revolves around this ambition. We are thrilled to be part of this journey alongside our partners in Nigeria and across the globe. Together, we aim to amplify the voices of adolescents and young people on issues that pertain to their health, well-being, and overall development. Our pledge remains steadfast. We reaffirm our commitment to this process and will continue to collaborate with partners, adolescents, and all young people to ensure that their voices are not just heard but also acted upon. We will tirelessly work toward policy reforms and legal changes, advocating for the implementation of existing ones, all in alignment with the spirit of the commitment.”

Other highlights of the occasion had been panel dialogue, drama, and dance presentation.

The Global Forum for Adolescents is geared toward growing consciousness of problems with adolescents and sustaining monetary dedication to adolescent-friendly providers in direction of attaining Sustainable Development Goals.