I had the honor of delivering a Special Guest Lecture at the Noon Center for Equality and Diversity, University of East London, on the topic “Youth, Human Rights, and SDGs in Africa.” The event attracted a diverse audience of students and faculty members from various countries, continents, and cultural backgrounds, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas and perspectives.
The lecture aimed to explore, from a Nigerian perspective, the intersection of youth, human rights, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), while emphasizing the critical role of mentorship in shaping the next generation of leaders.
I shared my personal journey as a young African navigating challenges and opportunities. I highlighted how mentorship played a transformative role in my development, guiding me to seize opportunities and avoid pitfalls. This narrative strongly resonated with the audience, underscoring the power of guidance and support in unlocking potential.
I also emphasized how Nigerian youth are at the forefront of discussions and actions related to achieving the SDGs, the UN Agenda 2030, and the African Union Agenda 2063. I elaborated on their innovative contributions in areas such as climate action and environmental sustainability, gender equality and education. Through grassroots initiatives, advocacy, and entrepreneurial ventures, Nigerian youth have demonstrated their capacity to address global challenges with locally driven solutions, positioning themselves as key drivers of change.
A significant portion of the discussion focused on human rights challenges in Africa, particularly in Nigeria. Key issues included:
– Religious tensions and their impact on human rights.
– Freedom of expression and the pivotal role of youth in advocating for justice.
– Structural inequalities and systemic discrimination.
The dialogue extended into potential solutions, including community-driven approaches to reconciliation, leveraging the SDGs framework to address socio-economic disparities, and increasing awareness of human rights principles.
The diversity of the audience enriched the session significantly. Students contributed unique perspectives shaped by their research and experiences, which led to meaningful exchanges and an appreciation for the importance of inclusivity in tackling global challenges.
I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Professor Siraj Sait, the Noon Center for Equality and Diversity, and the University of East London for the invitation and for organizing such a thought-provoking session. It was a privilege to engage with such a vibrant and thoughtful audience. I look forward to continued collaborations that amplify the voices of youth and contribute to building a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable world.