FG Pledges to Engage Youths in Shaping Nigeria’s Urban Future

The Federal Government has pledged to involve and support young people in shaping the future of urban development in Nigeria. Minister for Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, made the reiteration during the 2024 event marking Urban October, coinciding with World Cities Day.

With World Cities Day raising awareness on sustainable urbanization globally, this year’s event had the theme ‘Youth Leading Climate Action for Cities.’ Dangiwa urged participants on the need to involve youths in addressing challenges faced by rapid urbanization and climate change.

He added, “Today’s young people are not only the leaders of tomorrow but through innovation and advocacy are already contributing immensely to sustainable urbanization.” Dangiwa implored that there is a great need for the input of young people in the design of cities: “We must open a space where their ideas are listened to and acted upon.

He also talked about some of the works currently in progress toward the self-empowerhood of youth, like the creation of a National Social Housing Fund that will help low-income Nigerians acquire decent housing.

Marcus Ogunbiyi, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, requested collaborative efforts toward the inclusion of youth in discussions pertaining to their cities.

Chairman House of Representatives Committee on Housing, Abdulmumin Jibrin while reaffirming his commitment to the programme of engagement of the youth said: “We pledge our support towards any programme you might be doing.