Nigerian National Action Plan on Youth, Peace and Security, has won the 2024 World Future Policy Award (WFPA).
This prestigious award recognizes innovative policies that tackle critical global issues.
The groundbreaking initiatives that address global challenges were held in Geneva, Switzerland.
This year’s theme, Peace and Future Generations, focused on policies fostering peace and stability for current and future societies. The highlight of the evening was the announcement of Nigeria’s National Action Plan on Youth, Peace, and Security (NAPYPS) as the recipient of the Vision Award.
Presented by World Future Council Ambassador and media entrepreneur, Frank Otto, the Vision Award spotlighted Nigeria’s leadership in implementing United Nations Security Council Resolution 2250, which emphasizes the critical role of youth in peacebuilding.
“Nigeria was the first country in Africa and only the second globally to domestically implement this resolution,” Otto said.
The award recognized the transformative impact of NAPYPS, which emerged from grassroots youth advocacy under challenging conditions.
The initiative employs a co-chair governance model involving youth, civil society, and government, ensuring inclusive decision-making.
NAPYPS has achieved significant milestones, including capacity-building programs across Nigeria’s 36 states and vocational training initiatives benefiting thousands.
For instance, in Adamawa State, over 5,000 young women affected by violence have received training to rebuild their lives. Despite these successes, scaling the initiative nationally remains a challenge, requiring increased funding and political commitment.
Honouring Nigeria’s Youth and Vision
Accepting the award, the Permanent Secretary of Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Olubunmi Olusanya, expressed pride in the recognition.
“This award is a testament to our youth’s resilience, creativity, and unwavering determination to build a more peaceful and sustainable future.
“This award celebrates our national achievement and reminds us of the work ahead. Therefore, we remain steadfast in our commitment to empowering our youth, eradicating violence, addressing inequality, and building a nation where peace and security are not merely aspirations but realities.
“Together, let us continue creating a world where youth are not just beneficiaries, but architects of a sustainable and peaceful future,” he said.
The World Future Policy Award Committee commended Nigeria’s initiative as a model for other nations, showcasing the power of youth-led solutions in addressing global challenges.
This year’s WFPA underscored the importance of investing in peacebuilding policies that empower future generations. With over 140 million young people, Nigeria’s leadership offers a bold vision for a global movement prioritizing youth as indispensable agents of peace.
There were 47 nominations from 29 countries nominated for various awards, the award ceremony was held at the Maison de la Paix in Geneva, Switzerland.
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