By Bashir Hassan Abubakar
The Bauchi State Government and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) have strengthened their partnership on youth development with the validation of the draft Bauchi State Youth Policy, aimed at providing a sustainable framework for youth empowerment and participation in governance.
The policy, reviewed and validated through the state Ministry of Youth and Sports Development and the Office of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), is expected to guide youth-focused programmes and interventions across the state.
The initiative aligns with the Bauchi State Development Plan and UNFPA’s 2026–2029 Strategic Plan, with a focus on empowering adolescents and young people to realise their potential and contribute meaningfully to the state’s development.
The validation was achieved during a two-day stakeholders’ review meeting involving representatives of youth-led organisations, faith-based groups, persons with disabilities, security agencies, academic institutions, international organisations, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), tertiary institution students, the private sector, civil society organisations, relevant government ministries and the media.
The participation of the diverse groups was intended to promote inclusiveness, strengthen institutional accountability and ensure that the policy reflects the needs and aspirations of young people across the state.
The process began in October 2024, when UNFPA supported consultations across Bauchi State’s 20 local government areas to gather contributions from different youth groups and stakeholders, including persons with disabilities.
The outcome of the consultations was consolidated during a drafting workshop in October 2025, paving the way for further review and the eventual validation of the policy in 2026.
With the validation, the Bauchi State Government has reiterated its commitment to evidence-based planning, sustainable youth development and the meaningful involvement of young people in decision-making processes.
The policy is expected to improve coordination among government agencies, development partners and other stakeholders in designing and implementing youth-centred programmes.
It also provides an opportunity to address challenges confronting young people while promoting their participation in social, economic and political development.
The partnership between the Bauchi State Government and UNFPA underscores the importance of investing in young people as essential partners in achieving sustainable development and building a prosperous future for the state.
