Youth Urged to Harness Digital Technologies for Development

ActionAid Nigeria has called on the nation’s youth to steer clear of negative uses of digital technology, urging them instead to harness it for personal growth and socio-economic advancement.

During a Youth Summit in Kano, Deputy Country Director, Suwaiba Muhammad, emphasised the importance of digital tools in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), highlighting the role of young people as digital pioneers in driving innovation.

Muhammad warned against the dangers of unguarded digital consumption, encouraging parents and guardians to guide their wards toward the positive use of technology, as the nation’s future hinges on youth embracing these tools responsibly.

“Today, young people are leading the charge in digital adoption and innovation, with three-quarters of those aged 15 to 24 using the internet in 2022 a higher rate than other age groups. However, disparities persist, particularly in low-income countries (like our country Nigeria) and among young women, who often have less access to the internet and digital skills compared to their male
counterparts.

While there is an urgent need to enhance digital inclusion, youth are largely recognised as “digital natives,” using technology to drive change and create solutions. As the 2030 deadline for the SDGs approaches, the role of young people in digital innovation is essential for addressing global issues.

“This is a clarion call to all of us as parents, guardians and role models to ensure optimal and positive usage of digital technology among youth for personal growth, education, information, research and career development for the overall socio-economic development of our society.

“The society has been decaying with youth trooping for uncensored and unguarded digital information and technology that harm their psychological well-being and disrupt the social fabric for having a better and moral society. We need to be gatekeepers for social and economic development.

“Digital technologies such as mobile devices, services, and artificial intelligence are instrumental in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). “Data generated from digital interactions supports evidence-based decision-making. With profound impact across economic, social and environmental dimensions.” She said.

In his remark, the Executive Director of Dispute Resolution and Development Initiative, Dr. Mustapha Yahaya challenged the parents, and guardians on their roles as gatekeepers to ensure their wards optimally and positively tap from the available opportunities with the use of technological advancement.

While acknowledging the role of digital technology in mitigating unemployment and countering violent extremism, the Kano State Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Mustapha Rabiu Kwankwaso, lauded the efforts of ActionAid and DRDI, affirming the state government’s commitment to creating more opportunities for youth.

The program, funded by the Global Community Engagement and Resilience Fund (GCERF) through the SARVE III project, sought to empower youth with the knowledge and tools needed to drive change and build sustainable communities in Kano State and beyond.