UNICEF, Nigeria Partner To Enhance Youth Empowerment For Climate Action

The Partnership include the Green Rising Project, a pioneering initiative aimed at empowering Nigerian youth to actively participate in climate action.

UNICEF in statement by its communication specialist, Susan Akila noted that the collaborative effort underscores their joint commitment to fostering innovative solutions, environmental stewardship, environmental sanitation, and green skills development for the pressing challenges posed by climate change. The partnership will also support amplification of children’s and young people’s voices in the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) of Nigeria.

“These initiatives are designed to Empower Children and Youth , equip young people with essential skills and knowledge regarding climate change and sustainability practices; Promote Engagement, foster a sense of responsibility among children and youth to engage in environmental protection and climate advocacy within their communities.

“Encourage Sustainable Development (support initiatives that contribute to the achievement of Nigeria’s climate ambitions and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)); Leverage Local Insights, create platforms for children and youths to voice their opinions and contribute to local, national, and global climate policy discussions”.

She said through these initiatives, the Ministry and UNICEF Nigeria will implement a series of workshops, training sessions, and community projects designed to inspire children and youth leadership in climate action.

“Our collaboration will facilitate:Capacity Building: Training programs that enhance knowledge in climate science, advocacy, and sustainable practices. Community-Based Projects: Implementation of grassroots initiatives that address specific environmental issues faced by local communities. Partnerships for Impact: Engagement with stakeholders from diverse sectors, including government, academia, and the private sector, to enhance the reach and effectiveness of youth-led climate activities. Engaging Children and Youth in National Policy Processes: Consultation with children and youth on NAP and Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) planning and implementation processes,”she said.

According to her, the Federal Ministry of Environment reaffirms its dedicated commitment to promoting youth-led climate action and recognizes that children and youths are not just the leaders of tomorrow but are instrumental in shaping sustainability strategies today.

Akila explained that in the face of escalating climate challenges, young people play a crucial role in advocating for environmental justice and innovative solutions, stressing that their passion, creativity, and ability to mobilise communities are essential for our fight against climate change.

The ministry supports initiatives that empower children and youths to develop and implement climate action projects in their communities, ensuring that young voices are included in decision-making processes at all levels, from local to global, and facilitating access to resources, mentorship, and training programs that equip young leaders to tackle climate issues effectively.

She said UNICEF and the ministry invite all stakeholders, including other government officials, NGOs, community leaders, and private sector partners, to join them in the vital mission, adding that together, they can create pathways for youth to take meaningful action in combatting climate change and contribute to building a greener, more sustainable future for Nigeria.

Collectively, we must nurture the potential of our children and youth; their insights and initiatives can drive transformative change and inspire sustainable practices across Nigeria and beyond. Together, we can accelerate the transition towards a resilient and sustainable future.

“Let us harness the energy and innovation of our children and youth to forge a path forward, ensuring a healthier planet for generations to come,” she said.

She concluded that UNICEF is looking forward to the impactful outcomes the partnership will achieve and the positive changes that will emerge from the empowerment of the nation’s youth.