SANWO-OLU, EDUN, OTHERS GRACE DUKE OF EDINBURGH INTERNATIONAL AWARD FORUM 2025

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has emphasized his administration’s dedication to empowering young people, saying that nurturing their potential is more vital now than ever.

The Governor reaffirmed this commitment today at the Grand Opening Ceremony of the Duke of Edinburgh International Award IGE & Forum 2025, held at the Grand Ballroom, Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, noted that the state government stands ready to support the young people, whom he describes as the heartbeat of the country, and the future the government is building for.

Besides, he viewed the youth as the strength of the nation. “The event brought together Award operators, policymakers, educators, development partners, and thought leaders, who will collectively shape a future that enhances the Award’s global reach, governance, sustainability, and strategic direction as it approaches its 70th anniversary in 2026,” said the Governor.

While declaring the event open, hosted nearly 200 youth leaders from over 50 countries, the Governor stated that the gathering aimed at strengthening youth development. “We want to strengthen our youth for leadership, help them build resilience, confidence, leadership, teamwork, and a deep sense of service,” said Sanwo-Olu.

The Governor further added that the event celebrates young people’s achievements and involves a simple leadership programme that prepares them to become global advocates for youth empowerment and non-formal education. He stressed that the event opens doors to international networks, leadership opportunities, exchange programmes, and global mentorship, and also inspires thousands of Lagos youths to participate in the Award, volunteer in their communities, and build the skills that prepare them for the future.

Also speaking at the event, the Duke of Edinburgh and Chairman of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation, Prince Edward, said the Foundation remains committed to guiding and inspiring young people to set meaningful goals, overcome challenges, and discover their purpose, passion, and place in the world.

According to Prince Edward, the Award movement is united by a single mission to expand global access and deepen its impact on young people everywhere, noting that while it may not be possible to reach every young person individually, the Foundation continues to scale its efforts by engaging groups and prioritizing communities where the need is greatest.

“Everyone is welcome, and the Award is rich and flexible enough to meet young people wherever they are. We are working to break digital barriers, social barriers, and geographic barriers, so that more young people can benefit from a truly transformative experience. When these three elements come together and we can engage young people meaningfully, we empower them in ways that become truly life-changing,” he stated.

In his address, Minister for Finance /Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Wale Edun, emphasised the need for Africa to be intentional in nurturing and empowering its youth to reach their potential, as Africa is home to the world’s youngest population.

According to the Minister, “I want to just focus my welcome on the fact that we are gathered here for young people at a time when if there is ever what you would describe as a young continent that needs to cater for young people, empower them and help them fulfill their potential, it is the African continent,” adding that helping young people to fulfill their potential and reach for the sky is essential for the continent development.

While applauding Nigeria’s ongoing commitment to youth development, including recent federal efforts to expand empowerment initiatives, Edun urged global stakeholders to continue supporting programmes that remove barriers and inspire young people to reach their full potential.

In her welcome address, Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to strengthening youth development and non-formal education.

The Minister of State for Education described the Forum as more than a celebration of a global legacy, calling it “an affirmation of our shared belief that every young person holds immense potential to shape a better world when given the right opportunities.”

Similarly, Minister for Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawale, said the ministry is committed to improving partnership for a greater percentage of young Nigerians that can take part in the life-changing experience, adding that the event confirms that for development in any nation, the young people matter.

“This award is a value to us as a Nigerian to connect strongly with the Nigerian young people in the development agenda. We want more for the young people of this country. We want Nigerians to benefit from this programme, build character, competence, and also global citizenship. Together, we can improve the Nigerian academy, improve the award programme, and also the entertainment industry and the larger digital gap,” he concluded.

In his goodwill message, Trustee, Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation, Mr. Muhoho Kenyatta, reiterated the foundation’s commitment to expanding youth empowerment across Africa as delegates from around the world convene in Lagos for the 2025 Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Forum and International Gold Event.

Kenyatta noted that Africa is home to some of the world’s fastest-growing youth populations and stands at a pivotal moment, with young people hungry for opportunity and eager for platforms that build resilience, adaptability, collaboration, and leadership.

His words, “This award, now active in 139 countries and territories, remains one of the most impactful non-formal education frameworks for empowering young people with the skills and mindset needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world. It has continued to create powerful connections between young participants, business leaders, policymakers, and civil society. These interactions break down perceived barriers and inspire young people to aim higher, dream bigger, and see themselves as world-ready.”