In commemoration of PLAN International’s 10th anniversary in Nigeria, the Youth Assembly of Nigeria (YAN) has announced a strategic partnership with the global organization to enhance gender equality, women’s development, and combat gender-based violence. This collaboration comes at a pivotal moment, with both organizations affirming their commitment to create a safer, more equitable environment for women and girls across Nigeria.

The alliance aims to leverage the strengths and resources of both YAN and PLAN International to drive sustainable progress in these areas.

Speaking at the anniversary event, Rt. Hon. Famuyibo Oluwasegun, National Speaker of YAN, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting its importance in addressing issues that affect women and girls. “Our goal is to build a future where gender equality is not just an ideal but a reality,” he stated. “With PLAN International’s expertise in women’s development and our vast network of youth advocates, we are well-positioned to make a meaningful impact on this issue.”

Central to this partnership is YAN’s recent establishment of a dedicated Women Wing, designed to advocate effectively for the rights and empowerment of the girl child. This initiative will focus on raising awareness of gender-related issues, providing platforms for young women to speak on critical matters, and promoting initiatives aimed at reducing gender-based violence. Rt. Hon. Famuyibo emphasized that the new Women Wing would be instrumental in mobilizing young people to champion gender equality and advocate for the end of gender-based violence.

PLAN International’s anniversary in Nigeria marks a decade of dedicated work in uplifting communities and protecting vulnerable populations, especially women and girls. Through this partnership, YAN and PLAN International plan to intensify their advocacy efforts and reach more communities across Nigeria, equipping them with resources, education, and training to understand and prevent gender-based violence. Both organizations view this collaboration as a critical step toward systemic change, aiming to dismantle the barriers that limit opportunities for women and girls.

This partnership signifies a promising future for gender equality advocacy in Nigeria. By combining YAN’s dynamic youth network with PLAN International’s experience in gender-focused interventions, the alliance is set to become a powerful force for positive change. Together, they will work toward a society where all young women have equal opportunities to succeed, free from the threat of violence and discrimination.