POLICY INSIGHTS AND YOUTH-LED INITIATIVES: THE NIGERIAN STORY OF SDGs IMPLEMENTATION - The Editorial Board

Contributors: Nweke[1], Okeke[2], Onyeachonam[3], Bankole[4], Wilfred[5]

ABSTRACT:

The adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) proved to be the profound global framework with direct effect on the societal needs of Nigeria. The country, having grappled with a number of laws, policies, and strategies for the promotion of economic and developmental stability adopted the SDGs and began making strides towards its accomplishment.

This article considers those strides from the perspective of policies and youth-led initiatives. It undertakes an indepth analysis of the overlapping yet essential roles policies and the youth have to play in promoting the attainment of the SDGs. The authors identify certain challenges which stand in the way of engaging profound policy ideas and implementing them. In accessing these challenges, strategies are proposed for the revitalising of policy and youth-led initiatives to enhance steps taken for the attainment of these goals. The paper concludes on this note.

KEYWORDS: Sustainable, Development, Goals, Policy, Youth, Initiatives, Implementation.     

        1.0        INTRODUCTION:

Considering the inability by most nations to reach the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), the United Nations adopted series of agreements pertinent to global sustainability in September, 2015. These agreements included the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a new framework for providing finance through the development of the goals as well as a general agreement on climate. The most profound among them, the SDGs consisted of 17 goals all aimed at addressing core societal needs and promoting a sustainable environment that prioritizes the survival and welfare of the individuals living in it.

Nigeria did adopt this framework and began working towards it. However, the trajectory has been slow and less productive.

Therefore, in analysing the steps taken by Nigeria to attain these goals, this paper delves into the impacts of policies and youth-led initiatives, identifying some of the challenges plaguing Nigeria’s efforts towards the SDGs. The paper concludes by providing recommendations for the application of policies and youth-led initiatives for the attainment of the SDGs.

1.0 POLICY INSIGHTS ON THE ACTUALIZATION OF THE SDGs – AN OVERVIEW

In 2015, Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, took a significant step toward a sustainable future by committing to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The SDGs, a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure peace and prosperity by 2030, provided a roadmap for Nigeria to address its most pressing challenges. The 2030 Agenda, adopted during the 70th session of the United Nations General Assembly, presented a vision for an economically sustainable, socially inclusive, and environmentally resilient future.

Nigeria acted swiftly, establishing institutional frameworks at national and quasi-national levels to support the effective implementation of the SDGs. Since 2016, the country has rolled out numerous policy initiatives, some of which are still underway. Key among these are: The Country Transition Strategy (2016) which marked the strategic shift from the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) to the SDGs; The SDGs Data Mapping and Publication of the Nigeria SDGs Indicators Baseline Report (2017) which laid the foundation for tracking progress; Integration of SDGs into Nigeria’s Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP) 2017-2020 which sought to ensure that economic, social, and environmental dimensions were embedded in national planning; Domestication of the Nigeria Integrated Sustainable Development Goals (iSDGs) Policy Simulation Model (2019) which primarily tailored the SDGs to Nigeria’s specific context; Ongoing Realignment of the National Statistic System (NSS) which played the role of aligning data collection with SDG indicators; Design and Implementation of the Integrated National Financing Frameworks (INFFs) for the SDGs, particularly addressing financing needs for SDG projects and the Independent Evaluation of Priority SDGs (SDGs 1, 3, 4) focusing on poverty reduction, health, and education.

These policies have all been geared towards reaching the goals for sustainable development.

 

2.0 THE IMPACT OF YOUTH-LED INITIATIVES ON THE ATTAINMENT OF THE SDGs

Various descriptions for the definition of ‘Youth’ have been given. These descriptions have their own varied reasons for their conclusions as to the age range/grade for the term ‘Youth.’ Take for instance, the UN secretariat has defined ‘youth to be persons between the ages of 15 and 24 years.’[6] This definition of theirs is based upon statistical analysis. The African Youth Charter gave its definition of youth thus: For the purpose of this charter, youth or young people shall refer to every youth or young people between the ages of 15 and 35 years.[7]

Meanwhile, the National Youth Policy labels ‘youth’ as a Nigerian citizen between the ages of 18-35 years (as of 2012)[8] which was later reviewed in 2019 to be 15-29 years.[9]

Youth-Led Initiatives are those development strategies that center on young people. These initiatives are largely devised, implemented and focuses on young people. Youth-Led initiatives can range from various categories Internationally based, regional levels, National levels, to the Local levels—Private sector or even social media. These are programs that focuses their attention on young people depending on the CONTEXTUAL age preferences.

Speaking on the National level (Nigeria), youth-led initiatives are formed either by National orders or privately registered development strategies. National orders or delegated powers such as the Ministry of Youth and Sports development, National Youth Empowerment Fund (NYEF), National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), National Youth Skills Programs (NYSP), even the compulsory one-year National Youth Service, all seek to foster a sense of unity in our Nigerian youth, seek to empower those who might be incapacitated, engage in the equitable participation of youth with disabilities, train youth leaders for the nearest future and create a system of award to honor exceptional youth in all fields of endeavor. Not to forget the private movement, for the betterment of the youth population.

We have seen from the #EndSARS protest, the capacity and amplitude that the Nigerian youth possess. There is a position that ‘protests in Nigeria against police brutality and specially the Special Anti-Robbery Squad... have mostly been by YOUNG NIGERIANS, aged 30 AND BELOW’[10][emphasis added].

The tenacity of the Nigerian youth in their unity when put together makes impact in the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Applying the National youth Policy as a case study: The policy nubs on youth education in various sections. The mission, vision and goals relate to the education of young individuals.[11] It also provides strategies for productive workforce through appropriate, quality education and skills development.[12] (SDG4—Quality Education). By dint of creating job opportunities and encouraging youth entrepreneurship, the policy contributes to SDG1 (No Poverty) and by promoting vocational training, the policy supports SDG8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).[13] On SDG 3(Good Health and Well-being), the policy works toward improving adolescent and youth friendly health services by integrating these services in at least 70% of the 100,000 primary health care facilities, expanding youth targeted health promotion activities, among others[14]. By ensuring equitable opportunities for all youth, including those living with disabilities, the policy supports, encourages and upholds SDG10 (Reduced Inequalities) and SDG16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions). [15]‘By investing in the right policies and programs for adolescents to realize their potential and their human rights to health, education and full participation in society, we can unleash the vast human potential of this 'SDG Generation” to transform our world’.[16]

 

3.0 RECONCILING THE IMBALANCES BETWEEN POLICY INSIGHTS AND YOUTH-LED INITIATIVES

 

The sustainable development goals serve as a blueprint for the attainment of a sustainable future for all citizens[17]. The proper implementation of the SDGs would enhance the building of Nigeria into a nation of peace, progress and prosperity while eradicating major issues confronting the country like poverty, hunger, inequality and illiteracy. Tò effect meaningful change in the country and actualize these goals, there is need for a harmonious blend of policy insights and youth led initiatives as they both have significant roles in the journey towards the achievement of sustainable development in Nigeria. Given the fact that both policy insights and youth led initiatives have their strengths and challenges, there are a number of imbalances that hinder the attainment of a collaborative effect between policy insights and youth initiatives. Some measures that can be taken towards reconciling these imbalances include;

1. Policy Dialogue

Policy dialogue is a framework for improving mutual understanding, identifying priorities, enhancing ownership and participation, finding common ground, building constituencies and resolving for change[18]. One of the defects inherent in policy insights is that they may not always reflect a thorough consideration of the needs and prevailing problems of local communities. Policy insights are often directed towards solving problems generally without paying attention to the peculiar circumstances in which these local problems arise. Youth initiatives on the other hand mostly arise from local needs and perspectives as they are undertaken by individuals who are ready to take action for their benefit. The active involvement of youths in policy making, fostering effective communication between youth associations and policy makers, taking into consideration their knowledge of local circumstances and innovative approaches would promote the formulation of well-informed policies towards the attainment of sustainable development goals in Nigeria.

2. Inclusive Policies

Inclusive policies are a way of promoting a responsive and accountable stance of the government towards citizens.  Beyond feeling heard, youths need to feel that the government is responsive to their voice. Lack of responsiveness may in fact exacerbate distrust in government and it is important that the trust of youths in the government should be rekindled. Nigerian youths are dissatisfied with government actions and continue to operate under the illusion that the government is the enemy and against development. Policies directed towards youth welfare and development would assure youths that the government is attentive to their needs and willing to engage youths cooperatively in the journey towards development.

3. Empowerment of Youth-Led Initiatives

Youth-led initiatives are usually more innovative and flexible than policy insights, however youth initiatives are faced with financial and resource constraints. This impedes the impact of youth actions towards sustainable development. The government on the other hand has the advantage of expertise, financial resources for the implementation of policy insights. If synergy is to be achieved, there is need to strengthen and amplify the voices of youths who are ready to act. The government should undertake the financing of youth- led initiatives which have the potential to have substantial impact in the attainment of the SDGs. This should be a policy or strategy of the government in its efforts towards actualizing sustainable development goals. Efforts should also be made to train and educate youths because when youths are empowered with knowledge of their rights and equipped with leadership skills, they can drive change in their communities and help to communicate the development goals to communities at the local level[19].

 

4.0 CHALLENGES

6.1 CHALLENGES OF POLICY INSIGHTS ON SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS IN NIGERIA

The challenges facing policy implementation on Sustainable Development Goals in Nigeria include; Improper planning, Political Instability, Deliberate imposition of policy, Corruption and Bureaucratic bottleneck.[20]

I．Improper Planning:

A major challenge with policy insights as regards SDGs implementation is the failure on the part of the government to plan thoroughly ahead of the implementation of policies, questions such as where to get funding for such policies, estimated budgets, a long term goal and so on should be put into consideration and discussed amongst stakeholders and decision makers before any decision is made.

II．Political Instability:

Political Instability, party clashes, frequent change of power (from one bad government to another) also upends the intention of any government to implement policies. Change of governance disrupts whatever it is that has been planned in the previous government.

III．Deliberate imposition of policy:

When new policy implementation are suggested or discussed not for the good of the people but for the benefits and games of political actors purposefully imposing the need of a new policy implementation, then such implementation is bound to fail or have adverse effects.

IV．Corruption:

Corruption in the Nigerian government has been a long festering virus that has affected every political and economic aspect of this wonderful nation, it is indeed a shame that it is also a major challenge of policy implementation in Nigeria, where there is complete alteration to the plan if it is not favorable to the implementers or civil servants saddled with the responsibility to implement it (Ajulor 2016).[21]

V．Bureaucratic Bottleneck: 

Bureaucratic gridlock also serves as setbacks towards policy implementation in general, especially where these procedural technicalities are unnecessary and only done for political hypocrisy then it would definitely be a chalk towards actualizing SDGs.

6.2 CHALLENGES OF THE YOUTH IN ACTUALIZING POLICY IMPLEMENTATION OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS (SDGS) IN NIGERIA

The following are major setbacks faced by Nigerian Youths in achieving the implementation of Sustainable Development Goals; Unemployment, Illiteracy and Insufficient Education, Poverty and Lack of Motivation.[22]

1.      Unemployment:

According to statistics by the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (NBC, 2011), between 2006 and 2011, there were 1.8 million new entrants into the labor market per year and some states recorded high composite unemployment rates above the national average of 23.9% as at 2013.# For instance in Bayelsa it was 38.4%, Bauchi 37.2%, Katsina 37.3%, to mention but a few. It is not difficult to imagine that the high rate of unemployment Nigeria is a setback to Youth-led initiatives to ensure the implementation of SDGs, as most youths would prioritize feeding themselves and their families first before aiming to achieving any secondary goals that may later come into their lives on the long run.

2.   Illiteracy and insufficient education

It is an irony that one of the major goals of the Sustainable Development Goals is quality education (Goal 4), however in so many states, the youth lack access to quality and affordable education and skills training. While some were not opportune to further past their secondary school education, others never had the chance at all. How then can we expect youths who never sat in the four walls of a classroom, to understand the urgency and significance of Sustainable Development in Nigeria? It is not possible and unless, certain actions are taken to correct this error, we continue to live with inaction and ignorance. Also, it is apparent that the quality of education in Nigerian schools are declining every day, inadequate infrastructure and training facilities, lack of well trained and motivated teachers and inappropriate curricula, all these make up for the reasons education is now below the required standard.

The future of SDGs lie in the hands of the Youth who are expected to be graduates in colleges and institutions but when these youths do not have access to quality education, it is probable that he future of SDGs is tethering on an edge.

2.      Poverty:

The first and most important Sustainable Development Goal is to ensure the eradication of poverty and though actions have been taken by the government to ensure this is achievable. Programs such as Nigeria Youth Investment Fund, School Feeding Program[23], Anchor Borrower’s Programmer[24], Conditional Cash Transfer and so on to help the Youth in actualization of this goal, despite the implementation of these poverty alleviation programs, poverty still remains a reality and formidable threat for millions of people in the country, to which even the youths are particularly vulnerable and exposed to.

Based on the findings by the World Poverty Clock which was compiled by Brookings Institute indicated that extreme poverty in Nigeria is growing by six people every minute, which is the highest number in the world at large (Adeboye 2018).[25]

3.      Lack of Motivation for Youths:

Nigeria has always struggled with inability to motivate her young ones, the incessant strikes of the work force in the past few years are a testament to that. Another irony because the third goal of the Sustainable Development deals with good health and general well-being, which is a glaring contrast to the treatment that Nigerian workers have been getting, all of which has caused demotivating and non-chalance to work in general.

Nigeria failed to keep up with the Millennium Development Goals of 2015 and it would be a shame with how much awareness and technology has advanced, that we are still left behind again and our Youths tied by the errors of our leaders and unfair life circumstances, thereby making them unable to make the change that this Country well deserves. Measures have been taken in the past to correct these wrongs and for success to be guaranteed this time around unity, accountability and consistency are required.

5.0 RECOMMENDATIONS TO COMBAT THE CHALLENGES OF POLICY INSIGHTS AND YOUTH-LED INITIATIVES ON SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS IN NIGERIA.

The following aim to tackle the various challenges faced by policy insights and youth-led initiatives in driving sustainable development goals into reality in Nigeria. They include[26];

7.1 RECOMMENDATIONS ON POLICY INSIGHTS FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS IN NIGERIA.

These recommendations aim to create a more supportive environment to enhance the overall effectiveness of SDG implementation in Nigeria.

7.1.1. Enhancing Capacity Building:

Improper planning has been a problem for policy insights in view of sustainable development goals in Nigeria and it is advised that governmental officials should aside from making significant policies, provide resources (funds) and also incorporate these policies funding into the annual budget. Areas like management of these policies and policy analysis should be focused on in order to improve proper planning.

7.1.2. Improvement of Political Stability:

It is suggested that government should endeavor to set realistic goals in line of sustainable development goals and the officials should also try to execute these plans at a faster rate in order to meet the purpose they were created for. Government personalities in different tiers and organs should foster peaceful dialogue, inclusion of the populace and peace building which will support the development of the communities in various areas, thereby decreasing social vices such as social unrest and terrorist activities.

7.1.3. Democratic Representation:

The Nigerian government should try to put the interests of the public into consideration when enacting any law or policy in this regard. Certain authorities should also be established to check the actions of the government and call them back to order when deviating. Unfavorable bills should not be allowed to be successful laws and unfavorable laws should be amended or removed completely[27].

7.1.4. Prevention of Corruption:

Strategic institutions and individuals should be created and empowered in order to check on the unconstitutional actions of the government and give out appropriate penalties. This will help to promote transparency and accountability, foster integrity, support whistleblowing and reporting mechanisms, implement anti-corruption policies and laws and address nepotism. SDG 16 affirmed this by "Promoting peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, providing access to justice for all, and building effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels."

7.1.5. Eradication of Unnecessary Technicalities:

Bureaucracy slows down the process of implementation. In order to effectively execute required policies in order to make sustainable development goals a reality, unnecessary guidelines and processes should be eliminated to enable a smooth implementation of the policies.

7.2. RECOMMENDATIONS TO IMPROVE YOUTH-LED INITIATIVES FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS IN NIGERIA.

In order to wipe out the barriers of youths in accomplishing sustainable development goals, the following recommendation or suggestions are important and should be considered:

7.2.1. Creation of Employment Opportunities for Youths[28]:

It is a known fact that one of the challenges faced by youth-led initiatives as regards to sustainable development goals in Nigeria is unemployment. However, to combat this setback, it is essential to create more work opportunities for the youths in order to be proactive and productive in sustaining these development in the country. School graduates should be provided with an environment to execute what they have learnt during the course of their education which will significantly minimize the number of unemployed youths on the street and causing truancy in the society.

7.2.2. Enhancement of Quality Education in Different Parts of the Country:

Seeing that illiteracy has posed as a threat to the realization of sustainable development, it is however important for governmental officials and educational individuals to take actions to improve the quality of education regardless of location, gender, ethnicity and social or cultural beliefs. Necessary infrastructural facilities like buildings, vocational centers, ICT centers etc. alongside well-equipped teachers and experts should be put in place. Safe and protected environment should not be underestimated and educational timetable which will reflect the importance of vocational training and sustainable development goals should be provided for.

7.2.3. Advancement of Development Both In the Rural and Urban Areas:

Development should be encouraged in all sectors of the economy to eradicate poverty. Strategic places like agriculture, mining and manufacturing should be critically looked into and paid attention to in order to allow the members of the public engage in these activities to earn a living.

7.2.4. Improvement in Governmental Activities:

One of the most pressing setbacks is the lack of motivation on the part of the youths due to distrust of politics, mismanagement of public funds and inconsistent operations of governmental institutions[29]. However, to effectively spring up the participation in sustainable development goals, government personnel, private sector and other stakeholders should be ready to tackle this problem of corruption and inequitable distribution of resources by ensuring transparency and accountability. An independent judiciary should also be in existence in order to address redress when the fundamental rights of these youths are violated or infringed upon during this process.

 

6.0 CONCLUSION

While youth engagement is not a completely failed project, Nigeria Youth SDGs Network, a coalition of youth-led and youth-focused civil society organization with membership of about two hundred and twenty youths has not succeeded in achieving the purposes for which it was created. Similarly, policies directed towards SDGs attainment have been met with numerous challenges and thus, been unable to produce the desired results.

In analyzing these ineffectiveness, this paper has identified some challenges and proposed solutions to them. It is, therefore pertinent that the foregoing be considered and implemented for the promotion of a sustainable Nigeria.


[1] Frankline Nweke, Executive Editor 

[2] Victoria O. Okeke, Sub-Editor

[3] David E. Onyeachonam, Sub-Editor

[4] Bankole O. Abigail, Sub-Editor

[5] Wilfred S. Richard, Sub-Editor

[6] United Nations, Definition of youth, 11/20/13, 8:48:15 AM, https://www.un.org/esa/socdev/documents/youth/fact-sheets/youth-definition.pdf                                                                                                      

[7] African Youth Charter, pg. 3

[8]National Bureau of Statistics in collaboration with Federal Ministry of Youth Development 2012 National Baseline Youth Survey. Page 11

[9] National Youth Policy, Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports Development (2019 Edition). Page 3.

[10] Funke Fayehun & Uche Charlie Isiogo-Abanihe, ‘#EndSARS: How Nigeria can tap into its youthful population’. The Conversation.com. “October 25, 2020 11.50am SAST” https://theconversation.com/endsars-how-nigeria-can-tap-into-its-youthful-population-148319

[11] National Youth Policy, Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports Development (2019 Edition). Page 9.

[12] Ibid.

[13] Ibid.

[14] Ibid

[15]Ibid. 

[16] Global Strategy for Women’s, Children’s, and Adolescents’ Health (2016-2030) cited from Ibid., 28

[19] Oluwasuji Clement Olawole and Ogunyewo Akinwale Olayemi, ‘The Nigerian Youth and the Attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Dealing with the Roadblocks’ Zamfara Journal of Politics 4(1) 2023

[20] Ajulor O.V, "The Challenges of Policy Implementation in Africa and Sustainable Development," (2018), Vol 3, Issue 3, PEOPLE: International Journal of Social Science, <https://dx.doi.org/10.20319/pijss.3018.33.14971518>, Accessed 9th August, 2024

[21] Ajulor O.V, 'Change Management in Public Policy Making Process," LASU: Journal of Public Administration and Management, 2(1), June.

[22] Oluwasuji C.O and Ogunyewo A.O, "The Nigerian Youth and the Attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Dealing with the Roadblocks," (2023), Vol 4, Issue 1, Zamfara Journal of Politics and Development, <https://www.zjpd.com.ng>, 9th August 2024

[23] "School Feeding Programme: Hobbled by Litany of Constraints in Pilot States," The Guardian, 4th June 2017, 9th August 2024&)

[24] Abdulkareem Mojeed, "CBN disbursed N629 billion to Farmers under Anchor Borrower's Programme in 2022," Premium Times, August 15 2023, <https://premiumtimesng.com>, accessed 9th August 2024

[25] Adeboye B.A, "Nigeria Overtakes India in Extreme Poverty Ranking," (2018), <https://edition.cnn.com/2018/06/26/Africa.Retrieved.on.15/07/2017>, accessed 9th August 2024

[26] Oluwasuji C.O and Ogunyewo A.O, "The Nigerian Youth and the Attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SGGs): Dealing with the Roadblocks," (2023), Vol 4, Issue 1, Zamfara Journal of Politics and Development, <https://www.zipd.com.ng>, 9th August 2024

[27] Ajulor O. V, "Change Management in Public Policy Making Process" LASU: Journal of Public Administration and Management, 2(1), June.

[28] Onuoha, F.C (2008), Youth Unemployment and Poverty: Connections for National Development in Nigeria. A Paper Presented at the International Conference on Youth and National Development, Mamabayya House, Kano. August 5th to 6th, 2008.

[29] Vambe, J.T. (2016), Youth Participation and National Development in Nigeria. IIimi Journal of Arts and Social Sciences. Vol 2. No. 1 (164-177)

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