USGEAAN Leads Benue Youth Groups in International Youth Day Activities
By Prosper Okoye
The Benue State chapter of the United States Government Exchange Alumni Association of Nigeria (USGEAAN) on Wednesday led a coalition of youth organisations in a solidarity walk through Makurdi as part of activities marking the 2026 International Youth Day.
The walk, held under the global theme, “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations,” brought together young people and representatives of youth-focused organisations to promote youth participation, inclusion, peace and climate action.
Participants assembled at the High Level Underpass before proceeding to the Benue State Government House.
Speaking during the exercise, the Benue State Coordinator of USGEAAN, Dr. Akpem Terese Shadrach, commended the participating organisations and called on young people across the state to work together in advancing a common youth agenda.
Shadrach stressed the importance of collective action in creating greater opportunities for young people and ensuring that youth voices are reflected in development initiatives.
«“The need to rally together in pushing a youth agenda that advances collective development and increased opportunities for young people in the state cannot be overemphasised,” he said.»
The participants later joined other International Youth Day activities at IBB Square, Makurdi.
The week-long programme is expected to culminate on Saturday with a youth conference at the Centre for Food Technology Research (CEFTER) in GRA, Makurdi.
The conference, scheduled to commence at 10 a.m., is expected to bring together young leaders, entrepreneurs, innovators, business leaders, civil society organisations, government representatives and development partners.
Two panel sessions are scheduled to examine critical issues affecting young people, including economic participation, leadership and access to opportunities at the local, national and international levels.
A major highlight of the conference will be the proposed development of a “Benue Youth Charter,” to be known as “The Benue Dream.”
According to the organisers, the charter will articulate the aspirations, priorities and expectations of young people in the state while providing a framework for meaningful dialogue on their role in the development of Benue and Nigeria.
The organisers said participation in the conference is open to young people and other relevant stakeholders across the state.
Representatives of Go-Green, Hub 17, YALI Benue Chapter and other youth-focused organisations participated in Wednesday’s activities.
International Youth Day is observed annually on August 12 to draw attention to issues affecting young people and promote their meaningful participation in social, economic and political development.