By Adamu Abdullahi
In the ever-evolving landscape of social change, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are increasingly recognizing the importance of innovation and entrepreneurship. These two elements are not merely buzzwords; they represent a paradigm shift in how NGOs operate, engage with communities, and address pressing social issues.
The Mai Jagora Peace and Development Initiative, under the leadership of Muntasir Jibrin Mohammed, recently held a Town Hall Meeting and Interface with Youths and Managers of Empowerment Programmes. The event was supported by the MacArthur Foundation through the Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED).
Speaking at the event, the Director of Mai Jagora Peace and Development Initiative emphasized that “the greatest asset of any nation is a well-educated and empowered youth.” He noted that young people are enthusiastic, curious, creative, and innovative. At this stage of their lives, they have the capacity and determination to pursue their dreams and achieve great heights — but guidance is essential to unlocking this potential.
In the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), however, many young people face numerous challenges, particularly high levels of unemployment. According to the Director, youth unemployment poses a serious threat to sustainable economic growth and development, especially in developing countries. He warned that if urgent steps are not taken to address the problem, the consequences could be dire for the FCT and the nation at large.
He added that youth unemployment has significantly contributed to the rise in poverty, insecurity, terrorism, banditry, kidnappings, political thuggery, civil unrest, cybercrime, and other social vices that undermine Nigeria’s development and hinder the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The programme was designed for both young men and women engaged in entrepreneurship. It was organized in collaboration with resource persons from the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), the FCT Community and Social Development Project (FCT-CSDP), and the Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports Development.
The interface aimed to empower young people for success in education, employment, entrepreneurship, and innovation through capacity-building programmes and mentorship. It also provided participants with valuable information about available opportunities in the aforementioned agencies.
The project, titled “Strengthening the Economic, Political, Cultural Identity and Rights of the Original Inhabitants of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja,” seeks to promote inclusive development and strengthen youth participation in nation-building.
