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YouPaD was born from a powerful idea: that young Nigerians should not be passive recipients of policy, but its architects. We exist to close the gap between policy creation and the lived realities of our generation by providing a platform for research, dialogue, and powerful, data-driven advocacy.
Nigeria's political landscape is at a pivotal juncture, marked by persistent governance challenges that undermine democratic growth. Central to these issues are the erosion of the rule of law, widespread human rights violations, and entrenched corruption that weakens public trust and state institutions.
Social fragmentation further complicates Nigeria's path forward, with generational exclusion stifling national unity. Young Nigerians, despite being the majority demographic, are often marginalized in political processes, limiting the country's potential for innovative leadership.
At YouPaD, we believe that addressing these systemic issues requires reimagining governance through the lens of youth inclusion, accountability, and innovation. One of our key responses is the Agora Policy Dialogue, a dynamic platform that brings together young thinkers, policymakers, and civil society to debate ideas, craft solutions, and influence policy directions, shaping the reforms needed for a more just and prosperous Nigeria.
Nigeria's economic growth has failed to translate into improved living conditions for most citizens, with poverty and inequality remaining widespread. Policies such as privatization have often worsened economic hardship, while the nation remains heavily reliant on oil, resulting in "jobless growth" where GDP rises without creating meaningful employment.
Climate change adds another layer of urgency, highlighting the need for a more sustainable and equitable economic model. Nigeria must pursue growth that is inclusive, people-centered, and aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
At YouPaD, we are working closely with trade unions and the Friedrich Ebert Stiftung on Nigeria's Energy Transition Plan, ensuring that young voices and workers' interests are central to the shift to a cleaner future. We also partner with Public Services International (PSI) to promote a Just Transition for workers, so no one is left behind.
Human security—protecting lives, rights, and dignity—is crucial for a stable Nigeria, yet it is often neglected. The politicization of ethnicity and religion continues to divide the nation, while the widespread availability of small arms escalates violence. Climate change, especially the shrinkage of Lake Chad, further compounds these security threats.
Despite these hurdles, Nigeria has a real chance to foster peace by prioritizing inclusive policies and meaningful youth involvement in peacebuilding. Young Nigerians are key to driving innovative, long-term solutions to conflict and instability.
We are committed to reimagining policy with human security at its core. Through our flagship Agora Policy Dialogue, we create space for young people, policymakers, and experts to discuss solutions to complex security challenges, promoting youth-led approaches to peacebuilding and conflict resolution.
A just and inclusive society cannot exist without gender equality. Yet, deep-rooted inequalities in Nigeria continue to limit the rights and potential of women and girls, from gender-based violence to unequal burdens of unpaid care work, hindering national progress across all sectors.
To address these challenges, gender perspectives must be integrated into all policies through gender mainstreaming. Access to quality health and education, especially sexual and reproductive health services, is also essential.
YouPaD is committed to breaking down the barriers that limit women, youth, and marginalized groups. We advocate for policies that promote gender equality, push for equal access to education and healthcare, and work to end all forms of violence, ensuring young people have the skills and opportunities to shape their futures.
Climate change is an immediate and growing threat in Nigeria, impacting agriculture, water, and security. The dramatic shrinking of Lake Chad by over 95% illustrates the devastating effects. At the core of this crisis is a system that prioritizes profit over people, leading to over-extraction of resources and environmental degradation.
What Nigeria urgently needs is a bold, people-centered transformation that redefines the relationship between society and nature. This requires a shift away from harmful development models toward alternatives that are just, sustainable, and resilient.
At YouPaD, climate justice and a fair energy transition are core priorities. Through collaborations with Friedrich Ebert Stiftung and trade unions, we engage youth and workers in shaping Nigeria's Energy Transition Plan. We are active at the grassroots level, working with partners like the UNDP to amplify youth leadership and advance environmental justice.
At the core of YouPaD's mission is a commitment to knowledge-driven change, grounded in research, evidence, and critical analysis. In a world where young people are often excluded from decision-making, research becomes a powerful tool for empowerment and transformation. Lasting social change and effective policy must be rooted in a deep understanding of the issues.
Our Research & Development work tackles key challenges facing Nigeria, including governance, economic justice, security, and climate change. We go beyond surface-level analysis to identify root causes and offer practical policy recommendations.
This research powers initiatives like the Agora Policy Dialogue, where evidence-based insights are turned into actionable policy solutions. For YouPaD, research is not just about knowledge—it's a catalyst for change that drives action, shapes systems, and builds a more just and informed future.
Each program is a strategic intervention, designed to address Nigeria's challenges through research, advocacy, and direct community engagement.
We are committed to reimagining policy with human security at its core, creating space for youth-led approaches to peacebuilding and conflict resolution. Our work tackles complex challenges like ethnic politics and climate-related conflicts.
Learn MoreWe believe in reimagining governance through the lens of youth inclusion, accountability, and innovation, shaping the reforms needed for a more just Nigeria. The Agora Policy Dialogue is our key platform for this change.
Learn MoreWe work to ensure that young voices and workers' interests are central to Nigeria's shift to a cleaner, more sustainable future. This includes promoting a Just Transition so no one is left behind.
Learn MoreWe are committed to breaking down the barriers that limit women, youth, and marginalized groups. We advocate for gender equality and ensure equitable access to education, healthcare, and leadership opportunities.
Learn MoreClimate justice and a fair energy transition are our core priorities. We work at the grassroots level to amplify youth leadership and advance environmental justice for all communities, ensuring a resilient future.
Learn MoreOur work is grounded in knowledge-driven change. We use research as a tool for empowerment, turning evidence-based insights into actionable policy solutions that reflect real experiences and diverse perspectives.
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An on-the-ground initiative in Nassarawa State educating farmers on the dangers of Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) to protect community health.
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A hands-on workshop with local farmers, fishers, and elders in Ogoni Land to co-create nature-based climate solutions and build a resilient community action plan.
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A powerful program dedicated to amplifying women's voices and leadership in Nigerian peacebuilding for lasting peace and security.
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A youth-led advocacy campaign demanding a nationwide ban on single-use plastics to protect Nigeria's ecosystems from plastic pollution.
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Collaborating with UNDP and GEF SGP in a high-level workshop to develop strategies for scaling grassroots solutions for climate action.
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An initiative empowering women by training them to transform plastic waste into marketable crafts, promoting green skills and a circular economy.
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An inspiring dialogue where young people challenged the status quo and charted a new course for youth leadership in Nigerian politics.
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Standing with frontline communities to demand an end to ecocide and fight for climate justice against the impacts of oil spills and gas flaring.
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A major summit convening over 100 changemakers to turn policy into action on renewable energy, environmental justice, and youth engagement.
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A policy roundtable challenging media practitioners to apply a critical gender lens and tell rural stories with urgency to improve peace outcomes.
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An in-depth discussion on Nigeria's infrastructural dependence on China, examining its effectiveness, costs, and the dialectics of international debt.
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A policy dialogue dissecting the interconnections between climate change and the rights of girls and women, elevating vital gender perspectives.
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An introductory visit to explore collaborations for youth capacity building and leveraging civic tech for good governance in Sokoto.
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Engaging students at the University of Nigeria Nsukka to rebuild trust and drive active youth participation in political processes.
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An outreach where we distributed over 500 sanitary pads and held vital discussions on menstrual hygiene and empowerment.
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A dynamic blend of education and creativity used to inspire youth-led solutions for climate action among students in Abuja.
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Our recent Earth Day summit convened over 100 stakeholders, including policymakers and youth leaders, to forge a concrete action plan for Nigeria's just energy transition. The event produced a policy brief now being used to advocate for equitable climate financing at the national level.


"Engaging with youth is not optional it is fundamental to crafting sustainable and effective environmental policies. This summit is a testament to that."


We mobilize youth-led movements to challenge systemic injustice and environmental degradation. Our campaigns target corporations and policymakers, demanding transparency and driving the agenda for a more equitable and sustainable Nigeria.
Citizens Mobilized
Youth Leaders Trained
Communities Engaged
Policy Dialogues Hosted

Our strategic direction is guided by a board of seasoned experts in policy development peacebuilding and law. Their oversight ensures our work is executed with the highest standards of integrity and impact.

Lend your skills in research, design, or community outreach to our mission. Join a dedicated team of changemakers building a better Nigeria from the ground up.
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Stay informed about our latest campaigns, events, and policy insights. Be the first to know about opportunities to make your voice heard and take meaningful action.
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You can join our mission by applying to our volunteer program or participating in our campaigns. We offer various pathways for direct engagement. For full details, please visit our Get Involved page.
We actively build strategic alliances with organizations that share our vision for Nigeria. To begin a formal partnership discussion, please contact our team directly via email at info.youpad@gmail.com with your proposal.
For all media inquiries, press statements, or to request a speaker for your event, please contact our communications desk. Direct your detailed request to info.youpad@gmail.com for a coordinated response.
To receive our latest policy intelligence, event invitations, and action alerts, we invite you to subscribe to our newsletter. This is the most direct way to stay informed about our frontline work.
Volunteering with YouPaD gave me the platform to connect my passion with purpose. I grew my skills in advocacy while working on projects that impact real lives.
Chika, Research Volunteer
I joined YouPaD as a communications volunteer and found a community that values innovation and empathy. It’s been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career.
Oluwatobi, Communications Volunteer
Your skills have a purpose here. Join a vibrant network of youth leaders and lend your expertise to drive transformative projects that tackle climate justice, gender equality, and good governance.
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