In commemoration of the International Youth Day, the Young Planners Forum of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners and in collaboration with HipCity Innovation Centre as Media partner convened a technical forum on August 12, 2024, in Abuja. This event provided a platform for discussion on how urban planning can better cater to the needs of the youth, who represent a substantial portion of the population. The forum aimed to foster dialogue and generate actionable insights to urban environments that are both inclusive and functional for the youth.
For context, sub-Saharan Africa is one of the most urbanizing region in the world, with over 60% living in urban areas and 85% of the population are youth.
The forum highlighted that the exclusion of youth from town planning discussions results in urban plans that do not adequately address their needs. The event featured a paper presentation on “Youth Friendly Neighborhoods and Walkable Communities” and a panel discussion on the attributes of youth-friendly neighborhoods, emphasizing the importance of affordable housing, safety, walkability, job opportunities etc.
Participants also explored solutions to barriers such as land access and funding, and discussed strategies for decentralizing economic activities to boost development in less central areas.
Sadly, poor infrastructure, the conversion of open spaces and green areas to commercial use and social events were identified as major barriers to creating youth-friendly environments.
On a positive note, proposed solutions included inclusive youth participation in urban planning, decentralizing economic/commercial centers, enhancing infrastructure, and improving safety and security and the strategies to achieve youth friendly environments include:
- Creation and/or revitalization of youth centers across the six area councils
- Urban designs should consider the economic advantages of developing walkable communities and the role of partnerships between businesses, local governments, and communities.
- Opening up commercial centers across the FCT that encourages youth enterprise and ease of doing business.
- The need for youth involvement in the design of residential and recreational spaces was highlighted.
- Create a special mortgage portfolio to enable young persons’ own homes and rent as well.
In conclusion, the importance of implementing plans effectively to achieve youth-friendly neighborhoods was stressed. Advocacy for continued involvement of youth in planning and design processes was seen as crucial for creating vibrant and inclusive urban spaces. Addressing infrastructure and urban sprawl issues, and promoting partnerships among stakeholders especially the private sector was encouraged.
