The Director of the Nigeria Youth Futures Fund (NYFF), Dr. Onyeche Elizabeth Agbiti-Douglas, has urged young people across Africa to position themselves for opportunities by developing the skills, knowledge, and commitment needed to drive change in their communities.
Agbiti-Douglas made the call on Wednesday while speaking at the ongoing African Youth SDGs Summit in Accra, Ghana.
Addressing participants during a panel session on “Governance and Youth Participation in Decision-Making in Africa,” she stressed that while opportunities exist for young people, success depends on their readiness, passion, and determination to make a meaningful impact.
She said, “A lot of times as young people, we tend to be fixated on what we don’t have and overlook what we have, which is our strength. It’s not just the youth but also the marginalized groups like women, the persons with disabilities, others. This makes us blind to the opportunities that are actually available around us.”
According to her, young people must shift their focus from limitations to their strengths and potential, noting that opportunities often emerge for those who are adequately prepared.
“It may not be as easy as envisaged, but the first thing I’ll tell young people is that you need to have some capital as a person. Not necessarily funds but skills, knowledge and other social capital. These are what prepare you and attract attention to you,” she added.
The NYFF Director further emphasized the importance of active citizenship and responsibility, citing it as a key characteristic of thriving societies.
“In society that we see as advanced, citizens take responsibility. This is what we support at NYFF. Young people who have demonstrated readiness and are prepared to provide solutions to challenges facing their communities,” Agbiti-Douglas said.
The African Youth SDGs Summit, which commenced on Tuesday, is expected to conclude on Thursday. As part of the activities, members of the NYFF community are expected to showcase their initiatives and impact-driven projects on the continental stage on Thursday.
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