Lagos, UNFPA demand bold investment in Youth for fair future

The Lagos State Government and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) have called for increased investment in youth empowerment.

They made the call during a World Population Day (WPD) event on July 16, 2025, at the Lagos Chambers of Commerce and Industry in Ikeja.

The global theme, “Empowering Young People to Create the Families They Want in a Fair and Hopeful World,” underscored the need to support youths’ reproductive and economic aspirations.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget, Mrs. Olayinka Ojo, delivered the keynote address, highlighting the role of young people in national development.

“Youths bring new ideas, energy, and creativity, contributing to innovation and job creation,” she said, noting that a large youth population offers a demographic dividend for sustainable economic growth.

Representing Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Mr. Mobolaji Onimole, Director of Development Partners Department, praised the governor’s T.H.E.M.E.S+ agenda, which prioritizes youth, social inclusion, and gender equality, aligning with the WPD theme.

UNFPA’s Lagos Office Head, Abigail Msemburi, expressed concern over declining global fertility rates and barriers preventing young people from forming families.

“The real fertility crisis is not that people are choosing careers over families,” she explained. “It’s that many, especially those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, are unable to create the families they want due to economic hardship, health concerns, and societal pressures.”

She advocated for comprehensive sexuality education, youth employment, affordable childcare, and family-friendly policies.

Former UNFPA Lagos Head Dr. Omosehin Omolaso noted shifting priorities among younger generations.

“Nearly 1 in 5 young adults say global issues like climate change and wars affect their willingness to have children. And 39% report financial limitations as a major obstacle,” he said, citing UN and U.S. Census Bureau data. He emphasized the need for inclusive policies, including access to affordable housing and reproductive services.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres, quoted during the event, urged leaders to “stand with young people; invest in systems that protect their rights, as well as build a future where every person can shape their destiny in a world that is fair, peaceful, and full of hope.”

Lagos NPC Director Bamidele Sadiku encouraged youths to acquire skills beyond academic qualifications to enhance employability. Stakeholders, including the Ministry of Youth and Social Development, National Youth Council of Nigeria, and Lagos Civil Society Participation for Development, echoed the call for improved access to education, skills development, healthcare, and job opportunities to drive Nigeria’s progress.