World Children's Day and UNICEF Nigeria's Focus on Youth Voices for Climate Action

World Children’s Day (WCD), celebrated annually on November 20, is a day of action by UNICEF to honour and advocate for children’s rights. It commemorates the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

This year, UNICEF Nigeria emphasizes the urgent need for climate action by amplifying youth voices and providing a platform where children can express their visions for a sustainable, just world. Through dialogues, storytelling, and art, young people from diverse communities are empowered to raise awareness of the issues that matter most to them, reminding us of our shared responsibility to address climate challenges for future generations.

This year's celebration is also an inspiring opportunity to reflect on figures like Nobel laureate Professor Wole Soyinka, whose lifelong commitment to education, art, and culture has shaped countless young lives. #WCD2024 calls for renewed global action to safeguard every child's right to realize their full potential, echoing Soyinka's legacy of nurturing young minds and fostering meaningful change.

Lessons from the African I-D-E-N-T-I-T-Y

Reflecting on how best to honour Professor Wole Soyinka's 90th birthday in March 2024, I designed the African I-D-E-N-T-I-T-Y (AI) project to highlight his immense contributions, mainly through his commitment to children's empowerment. Launched in July 2024, AI is a vibrant platform showcasing how empowering children and youth can cultivate a new generation of thoughtful, driven leaders while amplifying their voices on pressing global issues.

The insights gained from AI will fuel our discussions on Climate Action as we commemorate World Children's Day 2024, shaping a future where young voices lead the way to meaningful change.

Prof Wole Soyinka's Contribution to Child Development

On July 13, 2024, Professor Wole Soyinka celebrated his 90th birthday, a milestone that provided a moment to reflect on his life-long dedication to empowering young generations. His initiatives, such as Vision of the Child (VoTC) and Solution17, have offered countless children an avenue for growth, knowledge, and self-expression.

These programs have nurtured young leaders like Princess Marinay and Valentine Sopuru Udemadu , who shared the stage with Soyinka at a recent event hosted by the British High Commission, illustrating his lasting influence on youth. Through mentorship and cultural initiatives, Soyinka's work demonstrates the vital role of engaging youth in nation-building and problem-solving, solidifying his legacy as an enduring advocate for children's rights. Princess and Valentine joined the VoTC between 10 and 12 years old.

The quintessential LinkedIn Queen and Generation Unlimited (YPAT) leader anchored the panel session, Haoma Worgwu whose influence has impacted thousands of young people worldwide.

Utilizing Art for Storytelling: A Case Study of the Nine Seasons of Wole Soyinka

The "Nine Seasons of Wole Soyinka" exhibition, a central element in the recent event hosted by the British Deputy High Commission in Lagos, showcases the profound storytelling power of art. Curated by Foluke Michael , with significant contributions from artist Tola Wewe and VoTC Champion Princess Marinay , this series of paintings captures Soyinka's legacy through symbolic representations of his life and works.

Inspired by Michelangelo, the first piece, "The Legacy of Wole Soyinka in the Eyes of Michelangelo," initiated at the Piazza Del Duomo in Florence, Italy, sets the tone for an exploration of Soyinka's impact across borders. Each painting reflects an aspect of Soyinka's life, embodying themes of resilience, culture, and creativity that resonate deeply with the African identity. This exhibition reminds us of the importance of art as a medium for preserving culture and fostering dialogue on global issues.

Action Plan: Empowering the Young Generation to Solve Global Problems Through Art

As World Children's Day approaches, young people can look to Soyinka's legacy and the Nine Seasons of Wole Soyinka exhibition as blueprints for addressing today's pressing global challenges. Art can amplify voices and raise awareness, creating transformative changes in climate action, social justice, and sustainable development.

Through youth-focused initiatives and storytelling projects, the younger generation can utilize creativity to craft solutions, bringing attention to urgent issues like climate change, poverty, and education. By embracing these tools, young leaders are equipped to spark meaningful dialogue and action on both local and international levels.

Professor Wole Soyinka's 90-year legacy proves the transformative power of creativity, mentorship, and a deep commitment to uplifting children and youth. As we look toward World Children's Day 2024, we celebrate Soyinka's impact and the remarkable voices of young leaders globally.

This year, World Children's Day highlights the importance of children's voices in shaping a sustainable future; through storytelling, art, and media, youth are expressing their dreams and solutions for a better world, each story a catalyst for social change.

Join us in listening to the future as young voices rise, reminding us that protecting and empowering every child's rights is essential to building a more equitable and inspired world for future generations.

Kudos to all the schools and young people participating in 2024 World Children's Day!

Thank you for the opportunity to shape the future generation together - UNICEF Celine Lafoucriere Generation Unlimited Ejiofor Blessing Ochuko E.

Kevin Frey Fisayo Adeyemi Faithfulness Obasi-Kalu Prosperity Olorunfemi O.