From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna
The Youth Advocacy Coalition on Demographic Dividend (YAC-DD), has announced the formation of its first-ever executive leadership team, as a significant milestone in its efforts to advance youth-focused policies and inclusive participation across Nigeria.
In a press statement, the Coalition said the new leadership demonstrates its commitment to evidence-based advocacy and leveraging opportunities from Nigeria’s young population. YAC-DD unites passionate young leaders, researchers, advocates, and development practitioners working to create programs that empower young people and turn the country’s demographic potential into sustainable growth.
After extensive consultations and consensus among members, 12 individuals have been appointed to lead the Coalition’s efforts. Sumayya A. Hussaini and Seth Luke will serve as Co-Chairs, while Shim Kajang and Usman Idris Abdullahi will be Co-Secretaries. Christopher Atsen and Waniya Ilu will head the thematic committees for Evidence-Based Advocacy & Communication; Zitta Samuel and Abdullahi Yunusa will oversee Evidence Gathering & Knowledge Management; Yani Alexander Gideon and Hassan John will lead Youth Mobilization & Engagement; and Aaron Ayuba and Patience Frederick will head the Gender and Social Inclusion (GESI committee.
Representing the Coalition, the new leadership reaffirmed its dedication to forming strategic partnerships and amplifying youth voices. They committed to promoting evidence-driven advocacy and supporting policies that enhance good governance, health and social welfare, education and skills development, economic empowerment and entrepreneurship, as well as security, peace, equity, and justice.
YAC-DD stressed that unlocking Nigeria’s demographic dividend requires intentional investments in young people. To do this, the Coalition plans to engage government agencies, development partners, civil society groups, the media, and other stakeholders to advocate for policies that generate jobs, broaden learning opportunities, and improve health outcomes for Nigeria’s growing youth population.
“As the Coalition embarks on this new phase, we call on all stakeholders to collaborate in building a future where every young person has the chance to thrive, contribute, and lead,” the statement said.
It adds,“Together, we can turn Nigeria’s demographic potential into lasting social and economic prosperity.”
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