By Funmilayo Adeyemi
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Thirty youths from five underserved communities in Nasarawa are driving change through the Step Up Nigeria Fellowship Programme, supported by the Nigeria Youth Futures Fund and LEAP Africa.
This was revealed in a statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday by the Director of Programmes at Step Up Nigeria, Mrs Iyanda Oluwaferanmi.
Iyanda stated that the fellows aim to address pressing issues such as healthcare, education, water scarcity, security, and inadequate infrastructure, which have impacted their communities.
According to her, the selected youths, drawn from Agunji, Apiawoyi, Bukan Sidi, Goho Titi, and Mandara are advocating for improved service delivery and long-term development in their state.
“Armed with skills in advocacy and civic engagement, these young fellows have moved beyond learning; they have acted.
“Their collective efforts have tackled critical issues such as healthcare, education, water scarcity, security, and poor infrastructure, making a tangible impact on their communities,” she said.
She stated that in Agunji, the fellows improved healthcare and education, leading to the completion and roofing of the maternity block at the primary healthcare centre.
“Through their efforts, they also secured a modern microscope for the PHC laboratory.
“Furthermore, their advocacy resulted in the assignment of an additional staff member to the primary healthcare centre.
“Additionally, with only a missionary primary school (RCM Agunji) dating back to 1948, these fellows successfully campaigned for the approval of a secondary school in the community.
“This led to the commencement of a Junior Secondary School in October 2024, bringing secondary education to their community for the first time in 76 years,” she said.
Iyanda noted that Agunji fellows have also achieved other milestones, including the repair of the community transformer, completion of a 500km road with drainage, and securing of scholarships for students.
In Apiawoyi, the fellows pushed for improved access to clean water and better educational facilities, ensuring an enhanced learning environment and improved public services.
According to her, tables and chairs have been allocated to community schools by the local government, and the state water board has approved the construction of an additional borehole.
She further explained that the fellows facilitated the design of a new modern bridge in Bukan Sidi, while also engaging community stakeholders to ensure the project’s success.
“This infrastructure project, once completed, will serve as a symbol of resilience, accountability, and progress, providing easier access to economic opportunities in neighbouring communities”.
Iyanda also revealed that fundraising efforts are currently underway by fellows and community members to construct a solar-powered borehole in Goho Titi.
She added that fellows in Mandara are leading renovation efforts at the PHC, ensuring a safer and more functional clinic for the community. (NAN)
