Building a Sustainable Future: Can Collaboration & Equity Bridge the Divide?

The need for inclusive, unified, and empowered communities is taking center stage in discussions about building a sustainable future. While the solutions might seem complicated, the core ideas are simple: working together and being fair to everyone. In this content spotlight, we explore how strong families, inclusive communities, and accurate data can help us build a better, more resilient future for all.

SPOTLIGHT: Celebrating Family Bonds: Strength, Unity, and Inclusivity

By Lois Sambo fnpl, anipr

In life's challenges, we all need support. Holding hands is not just about physical touch; it is a powerful symbol of connection and unity—evidence of love, support, and reminding us that we're part of something bigger, especially within our families.

United in Family Bonds

In the bustling streets of Abuja, amidst the daily hustle and bustle, a remarkable sight unfolded: individuals and organizations joined hands in a symbolic walk, celebrating the vital role of families in our society. This gesture wasn't just a stroll; it was a powerful testament to the importance of familial bonds in shaping communities and nations alike.

The family is considered the basic unit of society because it fulfils both biological and socio-cultural needs, including reproduction, raising children, and fostering cultural identity. It is in the family that foundations are laid values are forged, identities are nurtured, and futures are shaped. The strength of the family directly impacts the fabric societies and the quality of individuals they produce.

Celebrating Differences and Inclusivity

When families accept and celebrate differences, they help their members see the beauty in having various backgrounds and experiences. Children raised in such environments learn early that differences do not divide, but rather unite in creating a stronger, more resilient community.

Addressing the issue of misconduct of children in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and the role of the family in raising good children, Acting Director-Gender Department, FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, Mrs. Joy Okosa said, "There are gaps in the development of the children, so we are walking with our hands joined together, to enlighten families on how to bring up good children. In the FCT for instance, we treat a lot of cases on abandonment of children, wife battering, and bullying. So we are out here to sensitize parents, because what the children see at home is what they grow up to do."

When families prioritize inclusivity and understanding, they contribute to the creation of a more just and equitable society. By teaching their members to value diversity, families lay the groundwork for future generations to build bridges across divides, promote social cohesion, and advocate for equality.

The Importance of Families

Permanent Secretary, FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, Alhaji Rabui Kolawole Adetoyi said, "Families are very important, and the development of any nation starts from the background, that is the family. The children of today, will grow up and become parents with their own children. Members of the society have to remember the importance of the family and why it should be prioritized."

Adaora Uzoh-Ntiwunka, Program officer at CCSI - Centre for Communication and Social Impact noted that "Today, we are creating awareness for good parenting, because the family is the smallest and important unit of society. We believe that if we have well empowered families, we will have empowered children and a better nation.

Families serve as the nurturing soil, where the seeds of acceptance, empathy, and respect for differences are sown and cultivated. By nurturing inclusive attitudes and celebrating our differences, families not only build better people but also contribute to the creation of a more compassionate and harmonious global community.

Celebrating the International Day of Families

The International Day of Families is observed every year on June 15th to celebrate the importance of families worldwide. It serves as a reminder of the fundamental role that families play in societies, promoting understanding, solidarity, and sustainable development across generations.

Counting Everyone for a More Equitable Future

#ICYMI - World Population Day 2024: On July 11th, the world commemorated World Population Day under the theme "Leave no one behind, count everyone." This year's focus highlighted the critical role of data collection in tackling population issues and driving progress.

Nigeria actively participated in the discussions, emphasizing the importance of data for understanding challenges, crafting targeted solutions, and achieving national development. Vice President Kashim Shettima stressed on the opportunity to transform Nigeria's growing population into a "demographic dividend," boosting economic prosperity.

Dr. Natalia Kanem, Executive Director of UNFPA, echoed the global call for inclusive data collection. "For humanity to progress," she stated, "we must count all people regardless of background or circumstance." Dr. Kanem emphasized that leaving marginalized communities uncounted hinders progress towards equality, peace, and prosperity.

UNFPA's research reveals a concerning trend: the world's most vulnerable populations are often excluded from data collection efforts. This lack of data impedes progress as it prevents policymakers from understanding their needs and designing effective solutions.

To learn more about the importance of data collection in Nigeria from key stakeholders, watch the video:

Celebrating World #YouthSkillsDay

Today, on International Youth Skills Day, the focus is on empowering youth through skill development to prepare them for the future job market. It stresses the importance of equipping young people with the skills they need to thrive, thus contributing to economic growth and social cohesion. As we navigate an increasingly complex and dynamic global economy, it is essential to empower the next generation with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive.

Building a Sustainable Future Together: Inclusion & Unity

Throughout this exploration of families, data, and youth development, one theme shines through: inclusion and unity are vital for a sustainable future in Nigeria.

Let's celebrate our differences, champion these values, and collaborate across divides to create a world where everyone thrives.

#SustainableFuture #FamilyValuesNigeria #WorldPopulationDay #YouthSkillsDayNigeria

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