Yenagoa, Bayelsa State – The Honourable Federal Commissioner of the National Population Commission (NPC), Bayelsa State, Mrs. Gloria Izonfuo, mni, has called on governments, the private sector, civil society organisations and citizens to intensify investments in young people as a pathway to sustainable development and economic prosperity.
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In a special broadcast to commemorate the 2026 World Population Day, Mrs. Izonfuo described this year’s global theme, “Realizing the Hopes and Aspirations of Young People Today and for the Future,” as timely and particularly relevant to Bayelsa State and Nigeria, given the country’s large youthful population.
She noted that World Population Day, observed annually on July 11, provides an opportunity to reflect on critical population and development issues while encouraging policies that improve the quality of life for citizens.
According to her, Nigeria’s youth population represents one of the nation’s greatest assets, stressing that young people remain central to the present and future development of every community, state and nation.
“Youth determine the present and future of every state and nation. Their role in the development of their environment, no matter where they are, cannot be overemphasized. Unlocking their potential is therefore a major responsibility for government, private enterprises, civil societies and the youth themselves,” she said.
Mrs. Izonfuo observed that with about 60 percent of Nigeria’s population made up of young people, the country has a unique opportunity to harness the demographic dividend through deliberate investments that create an enabling environment for youth to thrive.
She identified five strategic pillars necessary to realise the hopes and aspirations of young people: health and well-being; education and skills development; employment and entrepreneurship; governance and youth participation; and data, research and evidence-based planning.
The NPC Federal Commissioner urged stakeholders to prioritise these areas in policy formulation and implementation to empower young people and prepare them for leadership and productive participation in society.
“We should all invest in these pillars to meet the hopes and aspirations of our youth. If we strengthen these pillars, young people will be positioned to take their rightful place in society and their aspirations will be fulfilled,” she stated.
Mrs. Izonfuo further disclosed that the National Population Commission in Bayelsa State would hold a formal discussion on the significance of the 2026 World Population Day as part of activities to deepen public awareness of population and development issues.
She thanked the people of Bayelsa for their continued support and called for collective commitment toward building a future where every young person has access to opportunities for growth, education, employment and meaningful participation in national development.
The Commissioner concluded by wishing Bayelsans a successful World Population Day celebration and prayed for continued peace, progress and prosperity for Bayelsa State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
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