On 21st August 2025, a new chapter opened for young people in Enugu State as the government formally launched the Enugu State Youth Policy – a blueprint designed to put youth at the heart of governance, innovation, and development.
A Collective Journey
This policy was not written behind closed doors. It was birthed through a participatory process that brought together government, civil society, and young people themselves.
South Saharan Social Development Organisation (SSDO), with funding support from ActionAid Nigeria under the SPA II Project, walked alongside the process from start to finish:
- Formation of the Technical Working Group (TWG)
- Stakeholder consultations across communities
- Policy drafting with inputs from diverse voices
- Final validation and adoption by the State
Every step reflected the power of inclusion, and the belief that when youth are meaningfully engaged, policies speak to real needs.
Why It Matters
The Youth Policy is more than a document. It is a vision for education, entrepreneurship, health, governance, and social justice that prioritizes young people as active drivers of development. It also creates structures for accountability, ensuring that the voices of youth continue to shape implementation.
What Comes Next
Launching the policy is only the beginning. Implementation is key. SSDO will continue to stand with Enugu youth, pushing for resources, structures, and opportunities that make the policy a living reality, not just on paper, but in everyday lives.
Together, we are building an Enugu where young people are not just beneficiaries of development but partners and leaders in shaping it🌍✊.
