Youth Leadership Nurturing, Activism Receive A Boost

By Bukar Bolori

Youth leadership nurturing and activism in Nigeria have received a massive boost with Luminate contributing to Nigeria Youth Futures Fund (NYFF).

The NYFF Project, initiated in 2021, is a five-year initiative funded by the MacArthur Foundation and Ford Foundation and implemented by LEAP Africa.

This project is dedicated to nurturing youth leadership and activism in Nigeria by fostering outcomes-driven policy engagements and inclusive resourcing for medium and long-term national development.

The NYFF embodies the collective determination to invest in the potential of Nigerian youth.

A statement on Saturday by Maimuna Sani of the Communications & Community Engagement, LEAP Africa read that The Nigeria Youth Futures Fund (NYFF) Advisory Board is excited to announce and welcome Luminate as a funding partner to the project, adding that the partnership underscores a shared commitment to empowering the Nigerian youth and catalyzing impactful transformation for the long-term developmental landscape of Nigeria.

According to the statement, by facilitating policy engagements and providing a platform for their voices and ideas to thrive, the NYFF continues to pave the way for a brighter and more inclusive Nigeria.Kehinde Ayeni, Executive Director of LEAP Africa, expressed her enthusiasm while speaking on this partnership.

She said, “We are thrilled to welcome Luminate Group as a funding partner for the Nigeria Youth Futures Fund. Their commitment to join this fund underscores the power of collective action in engendering citizen-led participation in good governance and nation building. This partnership would amplify the project’s local and grassroots impact and create a lasting positive change in Nigeria at all levels.”

Amabelle Nwakanma, Director of Programmes at LEAP Africa, added, “Luminate’s experience in supporting social change initiatives will be a valuable asset to the NYFF. This collaboration will enable us to expand our reach and engagement efforts, ensuring that youth voices not only resonate but also drive tangible changes in our nation’s long-term development plans.

“As part of this collaboration, Luminate’s contribution to the NYFF funding pool will bolster the fund’s capacity to drive sustainable and inclusive development initiatives. This infusion of resources will further enhance the NYFF’s outreach and engagement across its areas of focus, ensuring that youth voices are not only heard but also incorporated into the fabric of the nation’s long-term development plans.

In a statement, the Vice President, Africa at Luminate, Toyin Akinniyi, said: “Luminate is proud to co-fund the Nigeria Youth Futures Fund alongside the Ford Foundation and MacArthur Foundation.”

She said: “Young Africans’ active participation in civic and political processes is critical to ensuring more representative and inclusive governance. The Nigeria Youth Futures Fund will continue to play a huge role in facilitating young people’s active participation and engagement in the development of policies and strategies that will shape Nigeria’s future, and that’s why we’re supporting this.”

Chinenye Uwanaka, Co-chair, NYFF Advisory Board, in a statement, expressed delight: “We are so delighted to have Luminate on board. Their vision and values strongly align with ours, and they have a history of supporting youth-led organizations. I really look forward to working with them to increase meaningful civic and political participation in Nigeria, and help create an environment where independent media thrives, especially in the challenging times we live in as a nation.

”The Luminate’s involvement solidifies the NYFF’s foundation of collaboration, innovation, and resilience. Together with LEAP Africa, the MacArthur Foundation, and the Ford Foundation, Luminate becomes an integral part of this transformative journey that places the youth at the forefront of nation-building.

According to a statement, Luminate is a philanthropic organisation that supports efforts to create just and fair societies.

By funding and amplifying innovative solutions, Luminate Group strives to empower people and address the complex challenges facing societies worldwide.

Luminate Group’s partnership with NYFF underscores its dedication to enabling positive social change and empowering youth to play a pivotal role in shaping their communities.