IPC Calls for Greater Investment in Youth as World Marks International Youth Day 2026
The Initiative for Peace and Comfort, IPC, has urged governments, institutions, and communities to move beyond rhetoric and create real, inclusive opportunities for young people as the world commemorates International Youth Day 2026.
This year’s global theme, “Youth: Creating Opportunities for Young People”, focuses on empowering young people as active partners in development rather than just leaders of tomorrow.
In a goodwill message signed by the President of IPC, Prof. Comfort Adenike Onifade, the organization celebrated the energy, creativity, resilience, and potential of young people in Nigeria and across the world.
“This day provides us with an important opportunity to celebrate the energy, creativity, resilience, and enormous potential of young people. It is also a reminder that the future of our communities and nations depends greatly on how intentionally we invest in, listen to, empower, and create opportunities for our youth today,” Prof. Onifade stated.
Youth as Partners, Not Just Future Leaders
IPC emphasized that young people are already essential to solving today’s social, economic, technological, and environmental challenges.
The organization noted, however, that encouragement alone is not enough. Young people require access to quality education, relevant skills, decent jobs, entrepreneurship support, mentorship, technology, leadership platforms, and spaces where their voices are heard.
Call for Inclusive Empowerment
Prof. Onifade drew attention to the specific barriers faced by young women and other vulnerable youth, including challenges around education, employment, leadership, and decision-making.
“Empowering young people must therefore be inclusive and equitable, ensuring that no young person is left behind because of gender, economic circumstances, location, or social background,” she said.
IPC called on governments, schools, civil society, the private sector, families, and community leaders to strengthen commitment to youth development and to work directly with young people in designing solutions.
Message to Young People
In her message to youth, the IPC President encouraged them to believe in their potential and lead with integrity and courage.
“Your background does not have to determine your destination. With determination, knowledge, character, and the right support, you can become agents of positive transformation in your communities and beyond,” she added.
IPC reaffirmed its commitment to promoting the well-being and development of youth and women through programs that expand access to skills, leadership, and support systems.
As the world marks International Youth Day 2026, IPC called for renewed commitment to building a society where every young person has the opportunity to learn, thrive, lead, and contribute meaningfully.
“The future belongs to those we empower today,” Prof. Onifade concluded.
Happy International Youth Day 2026!
The Initiative for Peace and Comfort is a Nigerian NGO committed to promoting peace, well-being, and sustainable development with a focus on youth and women empowerment.
