By Omoyeni Ojeifo
The Federal Ministry of Youth Development has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to climate action, youth empowerment, and sustainable development, describing young people as key drivers of innovation and environmental transformation in Nigeria and across Africa.
Youth Development Minister Ayodele Olawande Wisdom, said this at the Conference of Youth on Environment and Climate (COYEC) organized by the United Nations Sustainable Development Network in Abuja on Thursday.
Persecondnews correspondent at the event reports that the Minister lauded organizers of the 2026 edition of the conference and development partners for strengthening youth participation in climate governance and sustainable development initiatives under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Leah Akinfiresoye, Senior Special Assistant to the Minister on Social Security and Climate Change delivered his speech.
He noted that climate action must be viewed not only as an environmental necessity but also as an economic opportunity for young people.
“We commend the efforts of the organizers of this initiative, which reflects our belief that climate action should not only address environmental challenges, but also create economic opportunities for young people by transforming waste into valuable resources,” Olawande said.
He added that government efforts are focused on equipping young people with skills that will enable them to thrive in the emerging green economy.
“We are empowering youth with green skills, promoting entrepreneurship, and creating jobs while improving livelihoods and contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable Nigeria.”
Olawande stressed that young people are central to climate innovation and sustainable development efforts.
“Young people are not mere beneficiaries of climate policies; they are innovators, advocates, and solution providers whose energy and creativity are essential to building a resilient and sustainable system,” he said.
He noted that Africa stands at a critical crossroads, facing rising climate challenges such as flooding, desertification, biodiversity loss, food insecurity, and environmental degradation, but also holds vast opportunities in renewable energy, green enterprise, and innovation.
He highlighted ongoing government initiatives, including the establishment of the Youth Migration and Climate Action Resilience Department, designed to promote climate adaptation, environmental sustainability, resilience building, and green growth initiatives such as the Circular Economy and Empowerment Initiative for Climate Action, popularly known as “Waste to Wealth.”
Olawande reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to expanding platforms for youth engagement in climate action, innovation, and national development.
Persecondnews reports that the conference ended with renewed calls for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to advance climate resilience, green innovation, and youth empowerment across Nigeria and the African continent.
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