By KEN GBADOS

ActionAid Nigeria, in collaboration with members of the House Committee on Youth in Parliament, has set the tone for a renewed youth inclusion agenda at the just-concluded two-day Parliamentary Retreat of the Democracy Convening Alliance held in Abuja.

Welcoming participants, Chair of the Democracy Convening Alliance, Adoka Odela, said the retreat represents a co-creation platform for developing a joint action plan between the legislature and Nigeria's youth community. He noted that the Alliance, which now unites over 15,000 young Nigerians from diverse organisations, continues to drive accountability and legislative engagement around issues affecting young people.

Speaking on behalf of civil society, Country Director of ActionAid, Dr. Andrew Mamedu, said the retreat comes at a defining moment in the nation's democratic journey when youth participation must be placed at the heart of governance. He emphasised that the youth inclusion agenda aims to ensure that young people are not mere spectators but active contributors in shaping public policy.

According to him, "This alliance reflects our shared determination to ensure that government listens to the voices of its youth. We want to see young people influencing policy direction, driving innovation, and holding power accountable."

Dr. Mamedu applauded the parliamentarians for their commitment to youth-focused legislation, including ongoing efforts around sexual and reproductive health, disability inclusion, and the bill on sexual assault prevention, expected to reach the President's desk before November 25. He also commended the sponsorship of the Independent Candidacy Bill, describing it as a bold step toward expanding democratic access.

In her remarks and setting the tone for discussions, Josephine Adokwu of the Democracy Convening Alliance said the retreat is "more than just a meeting," stressing that it serves as a space for co-creation and joint problem-solving. "The big question is, what happens after this? Both parliamentarians and the youth alliance must leave with a document that reflects their shared commitments," she said.

Members of the House Committee on Youth in Parliament, who conveyed the goodwill of the Speaker, reaffirmed their readiness to continue championing youth issues, including education, employment, and social protection.

Reiterating ActionAid's support, Dr. Mamedu pledged sustained collaboration with the parliament and civil society partners to ensure that the outcomes of the retreat translate into real legislative impact. He urged participants to remain focused on turning conversations into measurable actions.

"The future of Nigeria's democracy rests on the inclusion and empowerment of its youth," he said. "This retreat is a step forward in ensuring that young people's voices are represented, respected, and reflected in national decision-making."