Youths warn FG, stakeholders against population explosion, impacts
By Tada Juthan
The North East Youth Initiative for Development (NEYIF) has warned the Federal Government and stakeholders against population explosions with devastating global impacts.
According to the youths, the global warning was to sensitise the people on various issues affecting population growth and development in Nigeria.
The Executive Director of NEYIF, Comrade Dauda Gombe, raised that alarm over the weekend to mark World Population Day (WPD) in Damaturu, Yobe State.
“Today (Thursday) is set aside across the globe to raise awareness about population growth and its impact on our planet,” he said.
He said the WPD theme, “Empowering Youth for a Sustainable Future,” was dedicated to youths’ empowerment and community development,” stating that they are committed to addressing the issues related to population growth and its impacts on sustainable development, the environment, and the management of resources.
“The youths emphasise the need for comprehensive action to overcome the challenges posed by population growth.
“We must work together to ensure unhindered access to education, family planning, healthcare, and youth empowerment.”
He noted that the most vulnerable communities are to be targeted by the federal government.
According to him, NEYIF reaffirms its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote sustainable development, youth empowerment, and community well-being.
Gombe, therefore, urged governments, civil society organisations, and individuals to join forces in addressing the complex issues of population explosions.
He said, “Our commitment to bringing sustainable development to the population is a project being supported and implemented by the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) and Transparency International (TI) on population issues.”
He noted that NEYIF will ensure that people are mobilised in Yobe State to address population issues that affect their lives and the environment.
“We plan to sensitise and raise awareness about the importance of the national headcount slated for November 2024.
He added that the raised awareness would be carried through radio and social media ahead of the census.
