The Bauchi State Government, in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), has validated a draft State Youth Policy aimed at strengthening youth development and participation in governance.
The policy was validated on Wednesday during a two-day stakeholders’ meeting organised by the state Ministry of Youth and Sports Development and the Office of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with support from UNFPA.
The policy is expected to guide the design and implementation of youth-focused programmes and interventions across the state.
UNFPA Country Representative, Muriel Mafico, represented by the State Programme Officer, Deborah Tabara, said the meeting brought together youth organisations, civil society groups, government agencies and development partners.
She said a drafting workshop was held in October 2025 to review and consolidate recommendations gathered from earlier consultations.
Mafico said the meeting provided an opportunity for stakeholders to strengthen the policy’s implementation framework, improve institutional accountability and promote local ownership.
The Director-General of the SDGs Office, Lydia Shehu, said young people aged 15 to 35 accounted for about 48.5 per cent of Nigeria’s population, while those aged 10 to 34 represented about 44.6 per cent of Bauchi State’s population.
She said the figures highlighted the need for policies that addressed young people’s economic, social, health and leadership needs.
“Youth development must be seen not merely as a social responsibility, but as a strategic investment in peace, security, productivity and sustainable development,” she said.
The meeting also attracted representatives of youth groups, faith-based organisations, persons with disabilities, security agencies, academic institutions and international organisations.
