West African youth leaders push for unified youth reforms
By Franca Ofili
The Pan-African Youth Union (PYU) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening youth structures across Africa through a coordinated reform process aimed at improving representation, inclusivity and accountability.
Mr Moumouni Dialla, President of the union, said this during the West African Regional Consultation on Youth Reform in Abuja.
“We observed that our youth structures must be stronger, more inclusive and more representative
“That is why we began these regional consultations and West Africa chose Nigeria as host.
“We are grateful to the President and government of Nigeria for their support, because being here feels like being in our own country.” Dialla said.
He said that the consultation agreed on the need for a uniform model that would guide how youth bodies operate across the continent.
“We need a clear and consistent model that countries can work with; these recommendations will help us tell the African Union what young people need, the challenges they face and the solutions we are proposing,” he said.
On insecurity, he said young Africans remained concerned about its impact on stability and development.
“Every young African is worried about insecurity, we cannot develop with instability and we must mobilise young people around peace and security.”Dialla said.
Also speaking, Oladele John, Vice President (West Africa) of the union, presented the official declaration adopted at the consultation.
He said the declaration outlined key reforms, including stronger legal recognition of youth bodies, improved governance standards and clearer operational guidelines across regions.
“The declaration sets out how youth platforms should function and how the PYU will support them in aligning with Agenda 2063 and the African Youth Charter.
“We resolved to harmonise structures so that our efforts are clearer, stronger and more effective across the continent.”John said.
He commended the Federal Government for its support to youth development.
Similarly, Ms Angelique Juliette of the Seychelles National Youth Council, said the consultation provided valuable insight into the diversity of challenges across African regions, particularly on gender and youth empowerment.
“Each region has different gender challenges. In Seychelles, gender is not a major struggle, but being here has helped me understand what other regions face.
“If we want to unify Africa, we must see through the eyes of our brothers and sisters and appreciate their realities.
“Spending four days in Nigeria has been eye-opening. I want to thank the Nigerian government for hosting us and for the warm hospitality we received.
“These few days have allowed us to connect, share experiences, and learn from one another.
“Such exposure is essential if we hope to strengthen cooperation, empathy, and a shared vision for Africa’s progress.” Juliette said.
The meeting brought together youth leaders from West Africa to review gaps within existing youth platforms and propose a continental framework to guide future engagement.(https://newsatlarge.ng)