TheCable

Society for Adolescent and Young People’s Health in Nigeria (SAYPHIN), a multidisciplinary non-governmental organisation, has urged the federal government to develop policies that will foster innovation and equip young people.

Adesegun Fatusi, the vice-chancellor of the University of Medical Science, Ondo and SAYPHIN national president, said this at a symposium commemoration of International Youth Day at the Zone Conference Centre, Gbagada, Lagos.

Fatusi said the aim of the event was to optimise young people to fulfil their potential and equip them with the necessary skills.

He said the day signifies what society needs to do to improve the lives of young people.

The SAYPHIN president urged the youths and older generation to collaborate to enhance societal development.

Olusegun Ogboye, permanent secretary, ministry of health, Lagos state, commended SAYPHIN for organising the symposium to kick off activities towards the 3rd national conference on adolescent health and development EKO 2023, which includes the unveiling of the official logo and launch of the official conference website.

Ogboye said young people, who make up 42% of the population in the state, face unique challenges, some of which may compromise their health and development potential if not properly addressed.

“Since young people represent the future of the country, one of the most important commitments a country can make for future economic, social and political progress is to address their health and development needs,” he said.

“Some of the factors that impact the development of today’s adolescents include social media, urbanisation, unhealthy diets, armed conflicts, climate change and migration.”

Speaking on the symposium’s theme, “intergenerational solidarity: creating a world for all ages,” Adenike Esiet, executive director of Action Health Incorporated, advised young people to take on creative ideas and strive to excel to build a formidable society for all.

Esiet said young people need to recognise the importance of building solidarity, understanding and willingness to help one another for the good of all.

“Young people have the advantage of fresh and creative ideas, energy, and ability to work for success, and it is important that adults acknowledge this,” Esiet said.

“In the very same way, the young people need to recognise the resources that older people bring to the table.

“The government also need to focus on education, not limited to an institution, but ensuring everyone has an enabling environment to learn.”

On his part, Akinsanya Osibogun, chairman, Lagos state primary healthcare board, urged Nigerian youths to take advantage of opportunities and not discountenance adults with experience and wisdom.