Empowering Nigeria’s Youth: Driving Climate Change Solutions Together

Nigeria is focusing on involving young people in climate action, especially in relation to job creation and environmental issues. At the recent International Labour Conference in Geneva, Dr. Muhammad Dingyadi, Nigeria’s Minister of Labour and Employment, emphasized the country’s need to tackle youth unemployment while addressing climate change.

With over 60% of Nigeria’s population under 25, the minister pointed out a chance to empower youth to take part in climate initiatives. “We are working hard to create green jobs for the youth, both through traditional employment and entrepreneurship,” he said.

Nigeria has rolled out a National Employment Policy that aligns with its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) to promote a just transition in climate action. This approach supports workers affected by the shift from fossil fuels, with a focus on social dialogue and community involvement.

The energy sector is pivotal for Nigeria, being the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions—contributing around 60% of the total. This is largely due to activities in oil and gas production, electricity generation, and transportation. However, the same sector also presents significant opportunities for job creation and economic growth through renewable energy and modernized cooking technologies.

In 2021, Nigeria introduced an Energy Transition Plan (ETP) aimed at achieving net-zero emissions by 2060. This data-driven strategy targets emissions reduction across multiple sectors, highlighting the need for cleaner energy sources. The ETP also underlines the importance of a just transition, ensuring support for workers moving away from fossil fuels.

Despite efforts, the International Labour Organisation (ILO) has reported that progress toward sustainable development goals is faltering. Factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic and rising living costs have deepened existing challenges, making it harder for people to access education and employment. The ILO stresses the importance of a human-centered approach to address these crises, focusing on economic, social, and environmental sustainability together.

Recent statistics show that globally, around 81 million young people are unemployed. Engaging the youth in initiatives like Nigeria’s can not only tackle joblessness but also contribute to global climate goals. Social media has seen discussions related to “green jobs” gain traction, especially among younger demographics, indicating a growing awareness and demand for sustainable employment.

The Global Coalition for Social Justice, launched by the ILO in November 2023, aims to tackle social justice issues and support the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This coalition encourages collaborative action and dialogue, paving the way for tangible solutions in addressing social and environmental challenges.

In conclusion, involving young people in climate initiatives is not just a noble goal; it is essential for both job creation and addressing the looming climate crisis. As countries like Nigeria lead the way, they set an example for others to follow in fostering a sustainable and inclusive future.

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International Labour Conference,Muhammad Dingyadi