On the occasion of the 2025 Children’s Day, United Nations Ambassador for African Youth and Children, Abayomi Mighty, delivered a compelling message advocating for the rights and well-being of children across Nigeria and the African continent. He emphasized the urgent need to address critical issues affecting children, including education, health, and nutrition, aligning his advocacy with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Ambassador Abayomi Mighty highlighted the alarming statistics concerning out-of-school children in Nigeria. As of late 2024, approximately 18.3 million children in Nigeria remain out of school, making the country home to the largest population of out-of-school children globally . He called for increased investment in education, urging the government to allocate at least 15-20% of the national budget to the education sector, as recommended by international benchmarks.
Addressing health concerns, Amb. Abayomi Mighty drew attention to the severe malnutrition crisis affecting Nigerian children. An estimated 2 million children in Nigeria suffer from severe acute malnutrition (SAM), but only two out of every 10 children affected are currently reached with treatment . He stressed the importance of strengthening healthcare systems and ensuring that nutrition interventions reach the most vulnerable populations.
In terms of youth involvement in governance, Abayomi Mighty commended recent initiatives aimed at empowering young Nigerians. The Federal Government has unveiled its strategic focus for Nigerian youths in 2025, prioritizing areas such as youth empowerment, skills development, and increased youth involvement in decision-making processes . He encouraged young people to actively participate in shaping policies that affect their lives and communities.
Amb. Abayomi Mighty also underscored the importance of aligning national efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to quality education (SDG 4), good health and well-being (SDG 3), and zero hunger (SDG 2). He called for collaborative efforts between government, civil society, and international partners to create an environment where every child can thrive.
He reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for the rights of children and youth. He urged stakeholders at all levels to prioritize children’s issues in planning and budgeting, ensuring that the next generation has access to the opportunities and resources necessary for a prosperous future.