YDEI, LEAP Africa pledge stronger governance engagement in Kogi

By Mark Akudu, Kogi

The Youth Development and Empowerment Initiative (YDEI), in partnership with LEAP Africa and supported by the Nigeria Youth Futures Fund (NYFF), has officially commenced the implementation of the “Strengthen Youth Social Accountability Project” (SYSA-P) in Kogi State.

As part of its advocacy drive, the YDEI team, led by Executive Director Mr. Aminu Okwutepa, paid a courtesy visit to the Kogi State Chapter of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN). 

The delegation was warmly received by the State Secretary of NYCN, Abdullahi Ismaila, who stood in for the State Chairman.

Speaking during the visit, Mr. Okwutepa explained that SYSA-P builds on the achievements of the earlier *Youth Upright Accountability Project* (YUA-P). According to him, the new initiative seeks to equip young people in Kogi State with skills to engage in governance, conduct budget analysis, monitor public spending, and promote transparency and accountability at both organizational and community levels.

 “SYSA-P is not just about advocacy — it’s about action. We are giving young people the tools to understand public budgets, ask the right questions, and ensure that funds allocated for development projects are properly utilized,” Okwutepa said.

 “Our goal is to strengthen the voice of youth in governance and foster collaboration among youth organizations. Working with NYCN is a crucial step towards building a strong, sustainable partnership that will empower Kogi youth and shape a brighter future for our communities.”

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In his response, Ambassador Ismaila welcomed the project and assured YDEI of the Council’s full support in its implementation.

 “This project comes at a very critical time. We welcome it wholeheartedly because it is action-driven,” he said.

 “By focusing on youth funding, capacity building, and public expenditure monitoring, SYSA-P will not only strengthen youth organizations but also guarantee that government resources are effectively deployed for the benefit of the people.”

Addressing concerns about internal divisions, Amb. Ismaila dismissed claims that the Council is facing a leadership crisis.

 “The NYCN in Kogi State remains united and committed to promoting peace. Our present executive maintains a robust working relationship with the government of the day, and we remain apolitical in all our engagements. Our priority is the development of young people and the progress of the state,” he emphasized.

The visit also served as a platform to discuss the upcoming one-day Capacity Strengthening Session for Youth-Focused Organizations in Kogi State. 

This event will serve as an entry point for broader collaboration between YDEI and NYCN.

Supported by the NYFF, SYSA-P is expected to benefit youth organizations, student groups, and emerging young leaders by building their capacity to monitor public spending, advocate for increased budget allocations to youth-focused programs, and hold duty bearers accountable.

For the wider youth population, the project aims to drive stronger representation, foster greater inclusion in governance processes, and encourage government actions that truly reflect the needs and aspirations of young people.