By Ameh Gabriel
In celebration of the 2025 Children’s Day, Connected Development (CODE) in partnership with the Hopecare Grow Initiative, organized a landmark event aimed at empowering young Nigerians to become proactive climate ambassadors.
Held in Abuja, the event themed “Raising Young Climate Ambassadors for a Sustainable Future,” brought together students, educators, environmentalists, government officials, and civil society groups to spotlight youth-led climate action and inclusive sustainability efforts.
Minister’s Speech: A Call to Stewardship and Empowerment
Delivering the keynote address is the Minister of Youth Development Comrade Ayodele Olawande, who was represented by Hon. Kehinde Charity Awujoola, Senior Special Assistant to the Honorable Minister of Youth Development, delivered a compelling keynote address that set the tone for the day’s activities.
The minister stated that “this event is a powerful reminder that the future we are building for our children is intrinsically tied to the health of our planet.
According to him, “Building a better world is not just a slogan. It is a profound commitment to stewardship stewardship of our environment and stewardship of every child’s potential.
Our children are not merely the leaders of tomorrow. They are the vibrant, imaginative, and resilient agents of change today. Their laughter, curiosity, and boundless energy are the very elements that will shape a more sustainable, equitable, and peaceful world.
He further advise that it is our collective responsibility to nurture these qualities, to equip them with the knowledge and tools they need to thrive, and to empower them as architects of a brighter future.
Additionally, Comrade Ayodele emphasized that the Ministry of Youth Development is deeply committed to ensuring that our children grow up with strong values and healthy standards. We are working tirelessly on programs that promote environmental sustainability, combat climate change, and protect our natural resources.
But these efforts can only succeed if we instill in our youth a deep appreciation for nature and a sense of shared responsibility for our environment.
He stated that the event, focusing on building a better world, aligns perfectly with the vision of raising an environmentally conscious generation.
Every small action every tree planted, every piece of litter picked, every moment spent learning contributes to this vision. Ask questions. Stay curious. Learn how to be a champion for change. Your voices are powerful, and your actions, no matter how small, can create a ripple effect of transformation. He Said
I also want to acknowledge the parents, guardians, and educators who dedicate their lives to raising and teaching these wonderful children. You are shaping the next generation of leaders, and your efforts are invaluable.”
CODE CEO Hamzat Lawal: “This Is a Movement”
Hamzat Lawal, CEO of Connected Development (CODE), followed with an encouraging speech that inspired students to see themselves as key players in Nigeria’s environmental future.
“Today is not just a celebration it is a movement. A movement that recognizes young people as the most powerful agents of change in our society.
The climate crisis is no longer a distant threat it is a present and urgent reality. And it is your generation that has the passion, the creativity, and the moral clarity to demand and drive bold action.
At CODE, we are committed to empowering young leaders through education, mentorship, and advocacy. Whether you’re drawing attention through art, speaking out in your communities, or organizing clean-ups, you are already making a difference.
Your ideas matter. Your questions matter. Your voice matters.
We’re here today to tell you: You are not too young to lead. You are not too small to create impact. This is your planet, and you deserve a seat at the table when decisions about its future are being made.”
In her welcome address, Ijeoma Madu, Senior Partner at Hopecare Grow Initiative, highlighted the importance of nurturing the next generation of changemakers:
“This celebration is not just symbolic it is strategic. We believe that by equipping our children with knowledge and a sense of purpose, we can transform them into powerful advocates for the environment and for a better Nigeria.”
Madam Kelechi Mba, who represented UNICEF, delivered the opening remarks, noting the critical intersection between child welfare and environmental stability:
“Sustainable development begins with empowered children. We must create safe spaces for learning and leadership that include children of all abilities and backgrounds.”
Youth Take Center Stage
The event included two lively panel discussions on “Youth-Led Climate Advocacy” and “Inclusive Environmental Solutions.” The panels featured youth leaders, educators, environmentalists, and representatives from NGOs and civil society.
Three schools participated in a climate-themed competition:
Model Junior Secondary School, Maitama won 1st place, impressing judges with their innovative eco-solutions.
School for the Blind, Jabi claimed 1st runner-up, highlighting the importance of inclusivity in environmental education.
Mpape Junior Secondary School secured 2nd runner-up, with a well-researched presentation.
A Celebration of Art and Resilience
One of the event’s most moving moments was the Art Auction, featuring the extraordinary work of Azazi, a talented autistic child whose artwork conveyed powerful messages about hope, beauty, and environmental harmony. His art stood as a testimony to the importance of inclusive platforms that celebrate diverse forms of expression.
Building a Youth-Driven Green Future
The Children’s Day celebration by Hopecare Grow Initiative and CODE did more than commemorate a date on the calendar it planted seeds of change. By empowering children with knowledge, platforms for expression, and the tools to lead, the event made it clear: the future of environmental sustainability in Nigeria lies in the hands of its youth.
As stakeholders departed with renewed energy and inspiration, one message resonated above all: children are not just the leaders of tomorrow they are the solution-bearers of today.
