PROSPER OKOYE
More than 250 young professionals and youth leaders converged in Makurdi, Benue State, to mark International Youth Day with a call for increased youth involvement in economic growth, governance, and peace building.
The event was organised by the Benue chapter of the United States Government Exchange Alumni Association of Nigeria, USGEAAN, in collaboration with over 30 youth-led organisations. It was held under the theme “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations”.
Activities began on August 12 with a solidarity walk from the High Level Underpass to the Benue State Government House in Makurdi. Organisers said the walk was aimed at promoting youth participation, inclusion, peace, and development in the state.
The programme culminated on August 15 with a youth dialogue at the Centre for Food Technology and Research, CEFTER, Makurdi. The forum brought together young people and representatives from government, business, technology, agriculture, and community development sectors.
Benue State Statistician-General, Kumafan Dzaan, delivered the keynote address on preparing young people for global opportunities. He urged participants to take responsibility for shaping their future.
“Globalisation is a standard, not a location,” Dzaan said.
Two panel sessions examined a youth development agenda for Benue and strategies for accessing global opportunities. Breakout groups also discussed five key areas: decent jobs and economic prosperity; education, skills and innovation; agriculture and sustainable livelihoods; leadership, governance and inclusion; and peacebuilding and conflict resolution.
A major outcome of the dialogue was the adoption of the Benue Youth Charter, also called “The Benue Dream.” Organisers said the charter will serve as a framework for advocacy and policy engagement on youth development priorities in the state.
Chairman of USGEAAN Benue chapter, Dr. Terese Shadrach Akpem, appreciated partner organisations, volunteers, facilitators, and the media for their support.
He added that the gathering was designed to move conversations on youth aspirations into concrete actions that address development challenges in Benue.