The Nigeria Youth Workers Association (NYWA), the overarching body for youth development practitioners in Nigeria, has inaugurated its 2025 Youth Work Week (YWW) Organizing Committee. The brief ceremony took place at the Association’s National Secretariat in Abuja, with Ben Duntoye, President of the association, inaugurating the 5-member committee.
During his remarks, Duntoye emphasized the significance of annually commemorating YWW, stating, “Youth work has come to stay, and we must do everything to promote it. Like other professions, we need to come together annually to connect, celebrate, share knowledge, and best practices.” He highlighted the theme, “Building Brighter Futures: Safe places, trusted support, and opportunities to thrive,” noting its relevance in emphasizing the essential role youth work plays in empowering young people to reach their full potential.
Duntoye charged the committee to ensure the event’s success, highlighting NYWA’s commitment to advancing youth work.
Mr. Michael Ngula, Chair of the Organizing Committee, expressed gratitude to the National Executive Committee for entrusting them with the responsibility. He assured that the committee would align with the programme outlined by the Commonwealth Secretariat (ComSec) and the Commonwealth Alliance of Youth Workers Association (CAYWA) for the week-long event.
The event, scheduled to take place in Lagos State, will be organized in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Youth Development and the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development. The committee members are: Michael Ngula, Osili Elizabeth Chitto, Mariam Muazu, Tayo Olosunde, Chika Onaku (Representative of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development)
The YWW, celebrated globally annually, aims to recognize and promote youth work as a vital and respected profession. This year’s event will precede the Global Youth Work Conference in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, scheduled for November 17-19, 2025.
With 500 participants expected, the programme promises to be an exciting blend of education, information, and entertainment, bringing together youth development practitioners from the 36 States and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.