The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has launched the Dream Nigeria Youth Charter, a youth-driven framework developed by Nigerian young people to articulate their aspirations and provide a clear pathway for government action.
The Charter was launched at the 2026 Gender and Inclusion Summit, GS-26, in Abuja.
The minister, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Maryam Ismaila Kenshiro, described the Charter as a reflection of the collective vision and aspirations of Nigerian youths, urging stakeholders to support its implementation.
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Formally declaring the Dream Nigeria Youth Charter launched, the Minister called on stakeholders to support its implementation.
“On behalf of the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, who would have loved to be here but, due to work exigencies, could not, we are launching this beautiful work put together by Nigerian youths themselves and supported over the years by the Policy and Innovation Centre,” He said.
Speaking to Voice of Nigeria, a young Nigerian Product Designer, Gideon Ekong, said the Charter goes beyond presenting demands to government by providing a pathway for translating those demands into action.
“In collaboration with the FMYD, the Youth Dream Charter gives Government clear demands of youth, and not just demands but a clear pathway to putting these demands and platforming youth to achieve the Nigeria we dream of, and the Nigeria we want to create for ourselves,” Ekong said.
He expressed hope that the Charter would move from documentation to concrete implementation.
“I hope this isn’t just another document on the shelf, but the conversation follows up into implementation. I’m grateful for the support we’ve received from the FMYD, and I’m confident all parties are determined to bring the aspirations and content of the Dream Charter to life.”
Ekong said the launch brought a youth development dimension to the GS-26 conversations, with participants examining how stronger institutions, inclusive policies and accountable governance could translate development into tangible impact for Nigerians at the last mile.
The Charter is expected to provide a sustained platform for engagement between government and young Nigerians, while strengthening efforts to convert youth aspirations into actionable development priorities.
