YOSPIS Celebrates International Youth Day 2025: Calls for Greater Investment in Young People
The Youth Society for the Prevention of Infectious Diseases and Social Vices (YOSPIS) joined global celebrations for International Youth Day 2025, emphasizing the urgent need for greater investment in young people. This year’s theme, “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond,” highlighted the transformative power of grassroots, youth-led initiatives in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while envisioning a future where youth remain central to decision-making.
Speaking at the event, YOSPIS Executive Director, Zainab Nasir Ahmad, applauded the incredible contributions of Nigerian youth, describing them as present-day changemakers.
Professor Gwarzo Inspires Youth and Leaders on International Youth Day
“From climate action to digital literacy programs, peacebuilding to civic engagement, young people are already implementing solutions that are transforming lives,” she said.
Ahmad noted that in Kano alone, youth groups have tackled significant challenges such as drug abuse, menstrual hygiene awareness, and boosting voter participation among first-time voters.
Despite these strides, Ahmad highlighted the barriers hindering progress, including unemployment, underfunded educational systems, and limited access to financial and technical resources. To address these challenges, YOSPIS issued a strong call to action for stakeholders as follows:
Allocation dedicated budget lines for youth development across all ministries,Enact the 2025 Youths and Sports Law and establish a Youth Development Trust Fund for sustainable funding.”, Expand corporate social responsibility programs targeting youth empowerment,Channel more funding into grassroots youth initiatives,Actively support youth participation in local decision-making.
Ahmad stressed that with the 2030 SDG deadline looming, amplifying youth-led solutions is crucial. “The SDGs are not just abstract goals. They are about clean water, decent jobs, quality education, and safe communities issues we confront daily at the grassroots,” she said. “Supporting young people accelerates progress for everyone.”
The celebration underscored YOSPIS’ commitment to empowering youth through advocacy, education, and community development programs. As a leading voice for Nigerian youth, the organization continues to work in partnership with government agencies, civil society, and international partners to address health, social, and economic challenges.