As the world marked World Population Day 2026, Global Youth Development and Empowerment Advocate, Amb. Onyedikachi M. Odogwu has called for increased investment in young people as a strategic pathway to sustainable development and national prosperity.
Speaking in commemoration of this year’s observance, themed “Realizing the Hopes and Aspirations of Young People – Today and for the Future,” Odogwu emphasized that young people are at the center of innovation, economic growth, leadership, and social transformation.
He noted that meaningful investments in quality education, healthcare, digital skills, entrepreneurship, leadership development, and employment opportunities would enable young people to maximize their potential and contribute significantly to nation-building.
According to him, “A nation’s greatest strength is not merely the size of its population, but its ability to empower its young people to innovate, lead, and create lasting impact.”
He urged governments, development partners, the private sector, civil society organizations, and community leaders to work collaboratively in creating an enabling environment where young people can thrive and actively contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Odogwu further encouraged young people to remain focused, embrace lifelong learning, develop relevant skills, and seize opportunities that will position them as leaders and solution providers in their communities.
