As the world commemorates International Youth Day 2026 under the theme “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations,” the Adolescent Health and Information Projects (AHIP) calls for renewed commitment to creating an enabling environment where every young person can access quality healthcare, education, opportunities and the support needed to reach their full potential.
The theme recognises that young people live in diverse social, economic, cultural and geographical contexts, yet share common aspirations for dignity, opportunity, meaningful participation, good health, decent livelihoods and a sustainable future.
For us at AHIP, this year’s theme is a powerful reminder that although the circumstances surrounding adolescents and young people may differ, their right to accurate health information, quality adolescent-friendly healthcare services, protection and opportunities for personal development remains universal.
In Nigeria, adolescents and young people continue to face challenges that can significantly affect their health and future, including substance abuse, limited access to sexual and reproductive health information and services, early and unintended pregnancies, gender-based violence, mental health challenges and other social and economic vulnerabilities.
We therefore urge governments at all levels, development partners, civil society organisations, health professionals, schools, parents, traditional and religious leaders and the media to strengthen collaboration in addressing these challenges.
Young people must not only be regarded as beneficiaries of programmes and policies. They should be meaningfully involved in designing, implementing and monitoring interventions that affect their lives. Their voices, experiences and innovative ideas must inform policies and programmes at community, state and national levels.
AHIP particularly calls for increased investment in adolescent and youth-friendly health services that are accessible, affordable, confidential, non-judgmental and responsive to the realities of young people.
We also encourage parents, caregivers, religious and traditional leaders to create safe spaces where adolescents can ask questions, obtain reliable information and seek appropriate guidance without fear of stigma or discrimination.
The media has an equally important role to play by promoting accurate and responsible reporting on adolescent health, countering misinformation and amplifying positive stories that demonstrate the capacity of young people to contribute meaningfully to society.
As we mark International Youth Day, AHIP reaffirms its commitment to working with government, communities, partners and young people themselves to advance adolescent health, rights, empowerment and access to life-saving information and services.
Different contexts should never mean different opportunities. Our common aspiration must be a society where every young person regardless of where they live or their circumstances has the opportunity to live a healthy, safe, productive and fulfilling life.
I call on young people across Nigeria to recognise their potential, make informed decisions about their health and wellbeing, seek accurate information and services when needed, and actively participate in building healthier and more resilient communities.
Let us move from speaking about young people to working with them.
Happy International Youth Day 2026.
Dr. Mairo V. Bello
Executive Director
Adolescent Health and Information Projects (AHIP)
