Greetings to our lovely people of Rivers State and welcome to another episode of Rivethics on Radio, our character-building weekend show. Please remember that youth is a great but perishable gift. Let’s make the most of it. This episode is in Commemoration of the United Nations’ International Youth Day of August the 12th with the theme: “safe spaces for youth”
In the context of the United Nations, a safe space for youth is a place intended to be free of bias, conflict, criticism, or potentially threatening actions, ideas, or conversations. It is a welcoming environment for youths to blossom.
There are currently 1.8 billion young people between the ages of 10 and 24 in the world. This is the largest youth population ever. But 1 in 10 of the world’s children live in conflict zones and 24 million of them are out of school. Political instability, labour market challenges and limited space for political and civic participation have led to increasing isolation of youths in societies.
Youths need safe spaces where they can come together, engage in activities related to their diverse needs and interests, participate in decision making processes and freely express themselves. While there are many types of spaces, safe spaces ensure the dignity and safety of the youth.
In commemoration of the 2018 International Youth Day, events have been scheduled to hold across Nigeria based on the safe space theme. There are events in Abuja, Abia, Anambra, Plateau, Kaduna, Kano, Imo, Lagos and Rivers State. Details of these events can be found in the United Nations World Map of Events. There are also events scheduled around the world. A look at this map will show the activities being organised around the world to keep youths engaged.
According to the UN Secretary-General António Guterres, “the hopes of the world rest on young people. Peace, economic dynamism, social justice, tolerance — all this and more, today and tomorrow, depends on tapping into the power of youth.”
Let us all arise and commit to creating safe spaces for our children to thrive in their chosen paths, in addition to contributing to growth and development in their communities. In our homes and immediate communities, in schools and churches alike, we must give space to the younger ones to contribute to decisions that affect their future. At State level and country-wide, this approach is highly recommended also as an avenue to unleash the positive strength of the youth in our societies.
Our guest speaker today is Mr. Hanotu Weli, He is the Co-Founder of the 36 Youth Forum, a Nationwide Mobilisation platform for Nigerian Youths. He will be sharing with us his insight on the theme of this year’s International Youth Day. Please enjoy the episode.
Our great Rivers people, remember to always let your manners speak for you.
God bless and keep you and your families. And God bless Rivers State.
From Her Excellency,
Justice Eberechi Suzzette Nyesom-Wike,
The Wife of His Excellency,
Nyesom Ezenwo Wike CON. GSSRS. POS (Africa).
The Governor of Rivers State
You can also listen to and download the Pidgin English version of this Episode below