As the world marks International Youth Day 2025, Nigeria launches the YOUT-E-LIISE Nigeria initiative, an ambitious effort to engage *8 million young volunteers in fostering national values, economic participation, and inclusive democracy. The program seeks to empower youth across *8,000 wards* as drivers of the *Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)* and grassroots democratic engagement.
At a time when civic trust and democratic participation face challenges, YOUT-E-LIISE positions young Nigerians as key players in governance, climate action, innovation, and national unity. Victor Wilkinson Agih National Program Director, emphasized that the initiative embodies the spirit of Renewed Hope, ensuring youth voices shape local development. Senator Ireti Heebah Kingibe Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Women Affairs, highlighted the initiative’s alignment with Nigeria’s green recovery and climate goals. “Youth will not just inherit climate challenges but lead solutions—locally and inclusively,” she noted.
For young Nigerians, this is more than a campaign—it’s a lifeline. *Hezikiah Sila Olu, South-South Zonal Coordinator, stated, “Through YOUT-E-LIISE, we now have structured platforms to speak, build, and lead. We are not just the future—we are the present.” The initiative will also spur 80,000 youth-led micro-projects in climate adaptation, education equity, gender justice, and peacebuilding—directly advancing the SDGs. By embedding youth participation in governance, YOUT-E-LIISE ensures their voices shape decisions and sustainable development at the grassroots.
*The Road Ahead: Institutionalizing youth leadership for lasting impact
