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1. Population Demographics: - As of 2023, Nigeria has approximately 223 million people, making it the most populous country in Africa (Statista, 2024). About 60% of the population is under the age of 25, representing more than 133 million young people (World Bank, 2023). 

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2. Unemployment Rate: - The unemployment rate for youths aged 15-24 in Nigeria was at almost 5.84 percent (National Bureau of Statistics, 2023). This is considerably higher than the national unemployment average, reflecting a significant barrier to economic stability and growth for young Nigerians.

 

3. Educational Challenges: - Approximately 10.5 million children and youth are out of school in Nigeria. Many of these young individuals do not have access to quality education, which limits their opportunities for personal and professional development (UNICEF, 2023).

 

4. Poverty Statistics: - The poverty rate is estimated to have reached 38.9% in 2023, with an estimated 87 million Nigerians living below the poverty line — the world’s second-largest poor population after India (World Bank, 2023). This economic hardship limits their access to basic needs, including education, healthcare, and vocational training.

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5. Youth Violence and Crime: - A report indicates that youth unemployment and poverty are key contributors to rising crime rates among young people in Nigeria, with many young individuals engaging in criminal activities as a means of survival (Oluwaleye, 2021).

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6. Mental Health: - A significant number of Nigerian youths suffer from mental health issues due to economic hardships, violence, and social instability. However, less than 30% of individuals have access to mental health services (National Library of Medicine, 2023). 

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7. Entrepreneurship Opportunities: - While there is a growing entrepreneurial spirit, only about 5% of Nigerian youth have access to capital to start their businesses (World Bank, 2023). Providing mentorship and training can help unlock this potential.

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8. Crime Rates: - According to the National Bureau of Statistics, crime rates in Nigeria have been increasing, particularly violent crimes involving youths. For instance, a 2022 report highlighted that youth involvement in violent crimes has risen by over 30% in the past five years. Various studies estimate that nearly 1 in 10 Nigerian youths have been involved in gang-related activities.

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9. Substance Abuse: - A report by the United Nations Office on Drug and Crime in Nigeria indicates that 14.4% (14.3 million) of people aged between 15 and 64 years abuse drugs or have used one or more psychoactive substances (UNODC, 2023). Among these substances, alcohol is the drug with the highest prevalence rate, whereas cannabis is the most abused illicit drug followed by opioids, and other stimulants.

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Nigeria's future relies heavily on its youth. Investing in their development today can foster a more stable and prosperous tomorrow for the entire nation. With your donation, the New Beginnings Youth Foundation, a 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2017 and registered in the United States and Nigeria, was established to EDUCATE, SUPPORT, and EMPOWER these young individuals and the community by providing mental health and substance abuse treatment, vocational training, independent living skills training, mentorship, educational resources, and psychosocial support.

 

Your generous contribution can help bridge the gap between challenges and opportunities. Make a difference by donating today to change the lives of Nigerian youth!