2025 United Nations International Youth Day: HRH Dr. Selky Kile Torughedi Commends the Patience, Resilience, and Sacrifices of Nigerian Youths

As the world comes together to commemorate the United Nations International Youth Day (IYD) 2025, a momentous occasion dedicated to celebrating the potential and power of young people globally, prominent voices across nations are recognizing the indispensable role of youth in shaping a sustainable, peaceful, and inclusive future. Observed annually on August 12, this year’s celebration is anchored on the theme: “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond.”

The 2025 theme underscores the transformative capacity of young people in translating the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into real, localized impacts that uplift communities, build resilience, and foster innovation. It serves as a resounding reminder that youth are not merely future leaders—they are present-day change agents, visionaries, and solution providers working tirelessly at the grassroots level.

In alignment with this global vision, His Royal Highness, Dr. Selky Kile Torughedi, the Eyewei (V) of Azzuzuama in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, Bayelsa State, and the Ammananawei of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, has today issued a statement with a powerful tribute to Nigerian youths—particularly those in the Niger Delta region—for their unwavering commitment to peace, national unity, and community development amidst a complex landscape of socio-economic and political challenges.

Speaking on the occasion on Tuesday 12th August 2025 in Yenagoa, HRH Dr. Torughedi expressed deep admiration and gratitude for the patience, resilience, and selfless sacrifices exhibited by Nigerian youths across the nation. He described their continued law-abiding conduct, even in the face of marginalization and unemployment, as a true embodiment of patriotism and maturity.

“The youth of Nigeria have continued to demonstrate an extraordinary level of endurance and optimism. In spite of the prevailing hardships, they have chosen the path of peace, dialogue, and perseverance. Their sacrifices are not in vain—they are laying the foundation for a better Nigeria,” he said.

HRH Dr. Torughedi acknowledged the patience, resilience, and sacrifice demonstrated by Nigerian youths, affirming that their commitment to peace and unity is a profound mark of patriotism. He expressed confidence that their sacrifices will be recognized and rewarded in due course.

Furthermore, the monarch emphasized the urgent need for government authorities at all levels to intensify their efforts in creating enabling environments that provide meaningful opportunities for young people. This includes supporting platforms where youths can showcase their talents, skills, and innovative ideas, as well as developing sustainable livelihood programs that address unemployment and economic disenfranchisement.

He stressed that empowering young people is not just a moral imperative but a strategic investment in Nigeria’s future stability and prosperity. By harnessing the energy, creativity, and passion of the youth, the country can make significant strides toward achieving the SDGs and fostering inclusive growth.

His Royal Highness concluded by reiterating his commitment to advocating for youth development and peace in the Niger Delta and across Nigeria, urging all stakeholders to work collaboratively to nurture a generation of empowered and responsible leaders.nabling environments that foster inclusive youth development. He highlighted the urgency of implementing sustainable livelihood programs, expanding access to quality education and vocational training, and creating platforms for young innovators to showcase their talents.

“Empowering our youth must move beyond rhetoric to action. It is both a moral responsibility and a strategic imperative. Our nation’s stability, growth, and global relevance depend on how well we harness the energy, creativity, and aspirations of our young people,” the monarch emphasized. He added that without deliberate investment in youth capacity building and civic engagement, Nigeria risks alienating its most dynamic demographic—a risk too great to ignore in a rapidly evolving world.

As a respected traditional ruler with a longstanding commitment to peacebuilding in the Niger Delta, HRH Dr. Torughedi reiterated his dedication to advocating for youth inclusion, security, and empowerment in the region. He praised Niger Delta youths for their commitment to nonviolence and for engaging in constructive efforts to uplift their communities despite decades of environmental degradation and underdevelopment.

He also urged them to continue serving as ambassadors of peace and progress, reminding them that their voices, when channeled constructively, can shape policies and transform futures.

Concluding his address, HRH Dr. Torughedi made a passionate appeal to all stakeholders—government agencies, civil society, the private sector, traditional institutions, and international partners—to work collaboratively in building a future where Nigerian youths are empowered, respected, and heard.

“The youth are not a problem to be solved; they are partners in progress. Let us all commit to nurturing a generation of bold, responsible, and visionary leaders who will take Nigeria to greater heights,” he said.

As the world marks International Youth Day 2025, the message from HRH Dr. Selky Kile Torughedi stands as a compelling call to action.