The Africa Youth Growth Foundation (AYGF) recently participated in a two day Strategic Stakeholder Dialogue on youth focused peacebuilding. The dialogue brought together key actors across government and development sectors to strengthen collaboration and improve approaches to building sustainable peace in Nigeria. The engagement was convened by the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution in partnership with UNESCO, the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, UNICEF Nigeria, and other development partners. Discussions focused on the need for a more coordinated national framework that places young people at the center of peacebuilding efforts. Throughout the dialogue, participants examined ongoing challenges affecting the effectiveness of youth centered peacebuilding initiatives. Key issues included limited economic opportunities that increase youth vulnerability, gaps in grassroots inclusion especially at the ward level, and weak coordination among stakeholders which often leads to duplication of efforts. AYGF actively contributed to these discussions by highlighting critical gaps within the current peacebuilding ecosystem and sharing insights from its work at the community level. The organization also took part in shaping practical recommendations and contributing to the development of emerging guidelines aimed at improving implementation and accountability. A key message from the dialogue was clear. Sustainable peace requires more than conversations. It demands concrete action and a deliberate effort to position young people as active participants in peace processes rather than passive beneficiaries. AYGF remains committed to promoting coordinated and locally driven approaches that strengthen youth inclusion, build community resilience, and support long term peace and national development.

The Africa Youth Growth Foundation (AYGF) has taken a significant step forward in its mission to drive sustainable development across Nigeria through a new strategic engagement with Oxfam Nigeria. During a recent courtesy visit to Oxfam Nigeria’s headquarters, AYGF’s delegation, led by Executive Director Dr. Arome Salifu, met with the Oxfam team to explore opportunities for collaboration and shared impact. This meeting marked more than a formal introduction—it signaled the alignment of two organizations committed to a common vision: a future where Nigerian youth are economically empowered and actively engaged in governance processes. Throughout the engagement, both teams identified key areas of synergy that promise to amplify their collective impact. A major highlight of the discussion was the potential integration of Oxfam’s Just Economies pillar with AYGF’s agricultural empowerment initiatives. This collaboration aims to unlock new pathways for youth-led agribusiness, while improving access to financial resources, technical expertise, and market opportunities. In addition, the organizations explored ways to align AYGF’s Independence Nigeria Initiative with Oxfam’s governance frameworks. This integration is designed to strengthen youth participation in leadership at community and state levels, while promoting transparency, inclusivity, and accountability in governance systems. Strategic partnerships remain at the core of effective and sustainable development. Through this collaboration, AYGF is well-positioned to: Expand Opportunities: Create more avenues for youth engagement in economic and civic spaces. Scale Impact: Leverage combined networks, expertise, and resources to reach more communities. Bridge Systemic Gaps: Develop long-term, sustainable programs that extend beyond individual project cycles. Promote Accountability: Strengthen transparency and good governance at both local and national levels. This visit has laid a strong foundation for a results-driven partnership built on shared values and a commitment to measurable outcomes. AYGF and Oxfam Nigeria are already transitioning from dialogue to action, with plans underway to co-create initiatives that will translate this collaboration into tangible benefits for Nigerian youth. As both organizations move forward together, stakeholders and communities alike can look forward to impactful programs that advance youth leadership, economic empowerment, and accountable governance across Nigeria. Stay tuned for more updates as this partnership continues to evolve and drive meaningful change.

On Monday, the 12th of September 2022, The European Union delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS in Coordination with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), organised an event to formally close the first phase of EU’s flagship democracy support to programmes in Nigeria and launched the second phase, which is expected to be implemented from 2022-2027. The closing event served as an opportunity to learn from EU’s democratic support to Nigeria which allowed attendees get insights into the plans for the second phase. The event was held at the International Conference Centre (ICC) Abuja, Nigeria. During the event, a good will message was presented by the European Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ambassador Samuela Isopi and Prof. Mahmood Yakubu Chairman, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). There were two panel sessions, the first was on EU-Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria-SDNG’s contribution to Nigeria’s Democratic Consolidation, the discussants were; Mr. Jake Epelle, CEO Albino Foundation, Dr. Musa Umar, National Insyitute of Peace and Strategic Studies, Ms. Brenda Nwosa, Programme Officer, Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC), Mr. Arogundade, Executive Director, International Press Centre., Chigozirim Okoro, Programme Manager, CLEEN Foundation and Manji Wilson, Deputy Project Coordinator, European Centre for Electoral Support (ECES) who moderated the session. The second session was on the Challenges and opportunities for a credible 2023 General election in Nigeria, the discussants were; Prof. Attahiru Jega, Former Honourable Chairman, INEC, Prof. Anthonia Simbine, Former National Commissioner, INEC, Dr. Joe Abah, Country Director, DAI, Ms. Cynthia Mbamalu, Head of Programmes, Yiaga Africa, Fr. Atta Barkindo, Head of secretariat, The National Peace Committee and Mr. Seun Okinbaloye, Channels TV who moderated the session. AYGF was ably represented by its Head of Programmes, Patricia Akor.

2023 Theme: Overcoming Barriers and Unleashing Opportunities for Social Justice. Today is World Day of Social Justice! It’s a time to reflect on how we can create a more equitable and fair world for all. In 2009, the UN General Assembly passed a resolution recognizing February 20th as the World Day of Social Justice. This day is dedicated to acknowledging the importance of social justice in promoting world peace, security, and progress. The day is to promote efforts to tackle issues such as poverty, inequality, exclusion, and social injustice. It aims to raise awareness about the importance of social justice in promoting peace and security, reducing poverty and unemployment, and achieving sustainable development. The 2023 World Day of Social Justice aims to promote global solidarity and rebuild trust in governments by working towards achieving the recommendations of Our Common Goals. The focus for this year is “ overcoming barriers and unleashing opportunities for social justice” thereby advancing towards this goal. This day presents an occasion to engage in discussions with stakeholders regarding the actions necessary to reinforce the social contract that has been undermined by the growing disparities, conflicts, and weakened institutions meant to safeguard the rights of workers.These crises notwithstanding, there exist numerous opportunities to form a coalition for social justice and encourage more investments in decent jobs, with a specific focus on the green, digital, and care industries, as well as the younger generation. Violent extremism as one of our focus, is a complex phenomenon with multiple causes, and it affects individuals and communities in different ways. However, at its core, it is an expression of injustice and a rejection of the values of tolerance, diversity, and respect for human rights. To prevent and counter violent extremism, we must address its underlying drivers, which include political and social marginalization, economic inequality, identity-based discrimination, and lack of access to education and social services. We work to address these drivers by promoting social justice and building resilience in communities. We work with local partners to empower individuals and communities to challenge extremist ideologies, promote tolerance and respect for diversity, and foster a sense of belonging and identity. We also advocate for policies that promote social justice and human rights, and support efforts to address the root causes of violent extremism. On this day, AYGF reaffirms its commitment to preventing and countering violent extremism. We believe that justice and peace are inextricably linked, and that a just society is one that is resilient to the appeal of violent extremism, discrimination,and marginalization of any kind. We amplify the theme of “ overcoming barriers and unleashing opportunities for social justice” On this World Social Justice Day, let us come together to promote social justice and create a more equitable world for all. We must continue to work towards a world where everyone can live in dignity and security, free from the threat of violence and discrimination. Join us in this vital mission!