In a remarkable demonstration of grassroots leadership, youth advocates in Nasarawa State have launched a series of coordinated climate and renewable energy initiatives that are reshaping local governance, public awareness, and Nigeria’s clean energy future. Led by Our Mission Human and Social Impact Initiative, these efforts have trained over 100 youth leaders, mobilized communities through digital campaigns, engaged government stakeholders, and secured formal climate action pledges from three Local Government Areas (LGAs).
This article chronicles four major interventions carried out between January and September 2025, offering a blueprint for youth-led climate advocacy across Nigeria.
Building Capacity: Training Youth for Climate Leadership and Renewable Energy Solutions
The journey began in February 2025 with a two-part training program aimed at equipping young Nigerians with the knowledge and tools to become climate advocates and renewable energy champions. The sessions were held in Lafia and Keffi, drawing participants from Lafia, Kokona, and Keffi LGAs.
At the Muhammadu Buhari Center for Excellence, Federal University of Lafia, youth participants explored climate policy, leadership development, and solar energy technologies. A second session at SkyAge Hotels and Suites in Keffi featured a renewable energy showcase, including solar cooking stoves and inverter systems.
Despite logistical challenges—including a postponed tour of NASENI’s solar fabrication plant—the program succeeded in enhancing climate literacy and advocacy skills. Post-training evaluations revealed significant improvements in participants’ understanding of sustainability, policy engagement, and community mobilization.
Strategic Engagement: Securing Government Endorsement for Clean Energy Advocacy
Recognizing the importance of institutional support, the initiative formally approached the Nasarawa State Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in January 2025. Despite political disruptions, including the dissolution of the state cabinet, the campaign secured official endorsement on January 29 from the Permanent Secretary and Director for LGA Affairs.
This endorsement enabled the rollout of clean energy advocacy programs across Lafia, Kokona, and Keffi LGAs. It also aligned the initiative with Nigeria’s national goal of generating 30% of electricity from renewable sources by 2030.
The engagement demonstrated how strategic communication and persistence can overcome administrative hurdles and foster policy integration at the local level.
Digital Mobilization: Youth-Led Social Media Campaign Boosts Renewable Energy Awareness
In April 2025, the initiative expanded its reach through a 10-day youth-led social media campaign designed to raise awareness about renewable energy and climate change. Using platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, youth advocates shared infographics, videos, expert Q&A sessions, and interactive polls.
The campaign encouraged public participation through hashtags and digital storytelling, amplifying youth voices and sparking conversations around solar energy, climate resilience, and sustainable development.
By leveraging digital tools, the campaign reached thousands of Nigerians, including policymakers, students, and community leaders, reinforcing the role of youth in shaping public discourse on climate action.
Policy Advocacy: Local Governments Pledge Budgetary Support for Renewable Energy
The most significant milestone came in September 2025, when youth advocates secured formal climate action pledges from Keffi, Kokona, and Lafia LGAs. Through strategic lobbying and presentation of policy briefs, each local government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) committing to allocate 5% of their annual budgets to renewable energy initiatives.
This commitment marks a historic shift in local governance, embedding clean energy into development planning and aligning with Nigeria’s broader climate goals.
The success of this advocacy effort underscores the power of youth leadership in influencing policy and driving sustainable change from the ground up.
Conclusion: A Scalable Model for Youth-Led Climate Action in Nigeria
The coordinated efforts across training, stakeholder engagement, digital mobilization, and policy advocacy have positioned Nasarawa State as a national model for youth-led climate action. These initiatives demonstrate that with the right support, young Nigerians can lead the charge toward a sustainable future.
To build on this momentum, Our Mission Human and Social Impact Initiative recommends:
- Scaling up training programs to additional LGAs and states
- Strengthening partnerships with academic institutions and energy agencies
- Monitoring implementation of budgetary commitments
- Continuing digital advocacy to maintain public engagement
As Nigeria approaches its 2030 renewable energy targets, empowering youth and fostering local collaboration will be essential to achieving climate resilience and energy equity.