Kaduna Unites to Harness Youth Power: A New Roadmap for Digital-Green Synergy

From Femi Oyelola in Kaduna

In a groundbreaking move, the Civic Impact for Sustainable Development Foundation (CISDevF) and the Youth Advocacy Coalition convened a pivotal policy dialogue to reshape the economic future of Nigeria’s northern hub. The 2026 Civic Space Policy Dialogue, held at Kaduna State University, brought together stakeholders to chart a new course for the state’s youth, focusing on harnessing technology and climate resilience to secure Kaduna’s demographic dividend.

With 83.8% of the population under 40, Kaduna is at a demographic crossroads, underscoring the urgent need for inclusive policies that address youth needs, said Mr. Abel Adejor, who opened the session. The dialogue aimed to bridge critical implementation gaps in the state’s previous green policy by merging technological innovation with climate resilience.

The objectives of the dialogue were clear: deepen stakeholders’ understanding of the demographic dividend, create a unified advocacy roadmap, and develop tools to track progress. “The ball is squarely in your court. We are here to design an implementation strategy together,” Adejor declared, using a traffic light system to illustrate the urgency of the task.

In a goodwill message, Commissioner for Youth, Barr. Gloria Ibrahim highlighted Governor Uba Sani’s commitment to youth development, as evidenced by the establishment of the ministry to address governance gaps and ensure youth representation. The ministry’s agenda focuses on turning policy into actionable plans, such as the Demographic Dividend Roadmap (DDR).

CISDevF’s Executive Director, Mr. Yusuf Goje, reviewed the now-expired 2021-2025 green policy, noting that past efforts failed due to top-down approaches. He advocated for a Twin Transition that merges technology and climate action, and emphasized the need for digital literacy, tech integration, and support for youth-led green startups.

A pressing concern is the NEET population (youth Not in Education, Employment, or Training), which poses a significant threat to Kaduna’s economy and social well-being. The proposed roadmap seeks to mainstream digital literacy, integrate tech into vocational skills, and provide capital for youth-led green startups.

The dialogue concluded with the drafting of a formal communiqué to be submitted to the Ministry of Youth Development, serving as a simplified, actionable roadmap for the state government to track progress and accelerate implementation of the Demographic Dividend Roadmap.

This initiative marks a significant shift toward a high-tech, sustainable economic framework for Kaduna’s youth, positioning the state as a leader in digital-green synergy.