In a powerful call to action, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Governor of Lagos State, urged leaders and stakeholders from all sectors to create a supportive environment that empowers youth to reach their full potential.
He delivered this message during his keynote address commemorating the 2024 World Habitat Day on Monday in Lagos, where the theme was “Engaging Youth to Create a Better Urban Future.”
World Habitat Day serves as a significant global observance aimed at raising awareness and prompting initiatives regarding human settlements worldwide.
Mr. Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, highlighted the vital role that young people play in promoting sustainable and livable environments.
“As we commemorate World Habitat Day 2024, I urge all stakeholders—government agencies, private sector partners, civil society, and youth leaders—to work together in creating more opportunities for youth-driven entrepreneurship and innovation,” Sanwo-Olu stated.
“By fostering an environment where young people can thrive, we are laying the foundation for a future in which Lagos will continue to flourish.”
Addressing the numerous challenges faced by Nigerian youths, he acknowledged the need to tackle social issues such as unemployment, crime, and substance abuse.
The governor noted that his administration is proactively addressing these pressing concerns through substantial investments in education, vocational training, and mentorship programs.
According to Sanwo-Olu, “These efforts are equipping the youth with the tools they need to avoid vices and become agents of societal transformation.”
He stressed that the youth of Lagos must remain the “architects of change,” “innovators of tomorrow,” and “the inspiration for their peers.”
He called on all stakeholders to reaffirm their commitment to building a city where every citizen, especially the youth, can realize their full potential.
Sanwo-Olu emphasized that this vision encompasses a Lagos that is not only economically robust but also socially inclusive, environmentally sustainable, and resilient.
“This is a collective responsibility; we owe it to ourselves, to our children, and to future generations,” he declared.
The governor reaffirmed the state government’s dedication to empowering youth in alignment with the Lagos Resilience Strategy, which aims to create a city resilient to climate change impacts, improve infrastructure, and enhance public transport systems.
He articulated the government’s ongoing commitment to achieving the objectives of the New Urban Agenda and Sustainable Development Goal 11—to ensure cities are inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.
“Today, we not only celebrate the progress we have made in urban development but also recognize the critical role our young people play in shaping the future of Lagos,” he noted.
“With over 22 million residents, Lagos stands as Africa’s largest city and Nigeria’s economic powerhouse. Our youths, who make up approximately 51.5% of this population, are the driving force behind the growth and innovation that define this vibrant city.”
Sanwo-Olu called for the harnessing of the creativity and ingenuity of youth to tackle challenges such as rapid urbanization, housing shortages, population growth, and environmental issues.
He commended the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development for its commitment to promoting an inclusive urban future, especially through its engagement with young people.
Earlier in the event, Oluyinka Olumide, the state commissioner for physical planning and urban development, emphasized the indispensable role of young individuals in societal development.
“We are convinced that the administration is on the right track, as young people are not just the future; they are the present. Their energy, creativity, and fresh perspectives are exactly what our cities need to thrive in the 21st century,” Olumide said.
The celebration of World Habitat Day 2024 in Lagos featured a series of engaging activities, including panel discussions, school debates, drama performances, and exhibitions.
The event attracted a wide range of attendees, including members of the Lagos State Executive Council, permanent secretaries, general managers of government agencies, youths from public secondary schools, and enthusiasts of the built environment.
