Nigeria and the United Nations have renewed their commitment to advancing opportunities for young people and women, following a high-level meeting at the Presidential Villa yesterday.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who received a UN delegation led by Felipe Paullier, said the President Bola Tinubu administration was focused on harnessing Nigeria’s large youth population as a catalyst for economic growth and national transformation.
Shettima outlined key priority areas that would guide the strengthened collaboration, emphasising the need for practical and results-driven interventions.
He said the partnership would expand financial inclusion by improving access to funding for women and young people, enabling them to participate more actively in the economy.
READ ALSO: Drowning in oil, starving at home: Nigeria’s harsh reality
He also noted that the initiative would focus on equipping young Nigerians with relevant skills while creating sustainable job opportunities.
In addition, Shettima stressed the importance of engaging young people as active contributors to peace and national stability.
Furthermore, he highlighted plans to establish stronger institutional frameworks, including dedicated structures to coordinate joint efforts between Nigeria and the United Nations.
He noted that young people must be seen not as a demographic burden but as a national asset capable of driving sustainable development.
🔍 Explore More
- NRTC English Knowledge Base – Learn, improve, and sharpen your English skills.
- Top Stories From Around the World – Stay informed with the latest global news and insights.
- Specially Curated Listicles – Discover interesting lists, guides, and deep dives selected for our readers.
- Stay Updated: Join our mailing list and never miss the latest articles and updates from NRTC.
“Young people remain the foundation on which the future of this country rests,” he said, adding that the government is determined to convert Nigeria’s growing population into meaningful economic gains.
Speaking during the visit, Paullier described Nigeria as a dynamic and influential player in global youth development efforts.
On his first official trip to the country, he highlighted the UN’s Youth Office—established in 2022—as a platform to promote human rights, education and capacity building worldwide.
He commended the Federal Government’s increasing focus on youth inclusion, noting that involving young people in decision-making processes is key to unlocking innovation and long-term progress.
He also underscored the importance of gender equality, stressing that no society can achieve real development without empowering women.
The UN delegation reaffirmed its support for the Tinubu administration’s development agenda, aligning its global expertise with Nigeria’s local priorities.
READ ALSO: Shettima commissions NDPHC power project in Borno
The goal, both sides agreed, is to build a more inclusive society where young people can thrive and lead in areas such as technology, governance and social development.
The meeting ended with a shared understanding that investing in youth is no longer optional, but essential for any nation seeking lasting growth.
