The United Nations Youth Association-Nigeria (UNYA-NG) has called on governments, development partners, civil society organisations and young people to strengthen efforts aimed at promoting youth inclusion in governance and accelerating the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) across the country.

Speaking at a world press conference in Abuja on Sunday, the President and Founder of the organisation, Eze Ezekiel, said UNYA-NG remains committed to advancing the ideals of the United Nations while empowering young Nigerians to play active roles in national and global development.

According to him, the association and its members, both within Nigeria and abroad, are working diligently to promote the values of the United Nations and support the achievement of the SDGs by the target year of 2030.

“The leadership and registered members of UNYA-NG in Nigeria and overseas are working assiduously to achieve the aims and objectives of the organisation, promote the values and works of the United Nations, and advocate for the actualisation of the Sustainable Development Goals in Nigeria by 2030,” Ezekiel said.

He described UNYA-NG as a youth-led organisation established to educate young people about the activities of the United Nations, encourage participation in international affairs and provide a platform for networking, leadership development and civic engagement.

Ezekiel urged governments and other stakeholders to create more opportunities for young people to participate in decision-making processes and development programmes, stressing that youth engagement remains critical to sustainable national progress.

He also encouraged young Nigerians to take advantage of platforms that promote leadership, community service and active citizenship, noting that meaningful participation by the youth population is essential to addressing contemporary development challenges.

The UNYA-NG president reaffirmed the association’s commitment to representing the interests of young people at local, national and international levels, while advocating policies and programmes that support inclusive development.

He further appealed to public institutions, international organisations and development agencies to deepen collaboration with youth-focused groups in tackling challenges affecting young people and communities across Nigeria.

According to him, stronger partnerships among government institutions, civil society organisations and youth groups will play a crucial role in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals and building a more inclusive and prosperous society.

“We will continue to promote the values of the United Nations and provide opportunities for young people to contribute to national development and global peace,” he said.

Ezekiel added that the association remains open to strategic partnerships with stakeholders whose objectives align with youth empowerment, education, social development and sustainable growth.