Faith Uyo Adaji, a passionate young activist dedicated to creating positive change in Nigeria, is the FCT Coordinator for Girls Get Equal. In this interview, she speaks to ENE OSHABA on the green skills young women can tap from for economic empowerment.
How can young women benefit from green skills?
The green message advocacy is centered around promoting environmental awareness, conservation, and sustainable practices. It aims to inspire individuals and communities to adopt eco-friendly habits and make choices that contribute to a healthier planet.
Young women have a crucial role to play in building a green Nigeria. They possess unique perspectives, innovative ideas, and the energy needed to drive positive environmental change. By involving them in green initiatives, we can ensure a more inclusive and holistic approach to sustainability.
My current focus among many is on advocating for environmental sustainability and empowering young women to play a vital role in shaping a greener future.
Advocating for women, especially young women, to embrace green skills is essential because it empowers them with the knowledge and tools to actively contribute to environmental protection. By equipping them with these skills, we enable them to become leaders in sustainability and catalysts for change.
Green skills for young women encompass a wide range of abilities, including sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, waste management, conservation, and eco-friendly entrepreneurship. These skills empower them to make informed decisions that benefit both their communities and the environment.
How can government support young women in this regard?
Government plays a pivotal role in creating an enabling environment for young women to embrace green skills. They can offer educational programs, financial support, and policy frameworks that promote gender equality and environmental sustainability.
The status of young women in Nigeria is evolving, with many breaking barriers and achieving remarkable feats. However, challenges such as limited access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities still persist, highlighting the need for concerted efforts to uplift their status.
Relocating abroad might seem like a solution for some, but true progress lies in addressing issues at the grassroots level. By empowering young women with education, skills, and opportunities, we can create sustainable solutions that benefit Nigeria as a whole.
How do you think the government can attain a sustainable green economy for young women?
A sustainable way for young women in Nigeria involves equipping them with education, skills, and resources to actively participate in the country’s development. That’s why Plan International Nigeria’s Youth Advisory Panel, which I am the chairperson, is taking this initiative a first step towards raising awareness among the youth on climate change and how it impacts young women and girls.
The youth Forum as organised by plan international Nigeria’s Youth advisory panel aims to amplify the voices of the youth to the government on the need to prioritize education and create an enabling environment for green economy.
What is your call to government?
My call to the government is to prioritise the inclusion of young women in policy making and development initiatives. This includes promoting equal access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, while also supporting training programs in green sectors to empower them to drive positive change.
Regarding the new administration, I hope to see a genuine commitment to improving the well-being of young women. This should involve policies that address gender disparities, provide access to education and healthcare, and create an environment where young women can thrive personally and professionally