SOS Children’s Villages launches phase II of eco champions to tackle climate change, empower youth
The SOS Children’s Villages Nigeria has launched the second phase of its Eco Champions Project, marking a renewed commitment to youth-driven, gender-responsive climate action across the country. Speaking at the
The SOS Children’s Villages Nigeria has launched the second phase of its Eco Champions Project, marking a renewed commitment to youth-driven, gender-responsive climate action across the country.
Speaking at the event on Wednesday in Abuja, the National Director of SOS Children’s Villages Nigeria, Eghosa Erhumwunse, described the occasion as both a celebration of progress and a call to deepen impact.
Erhumwunse noted that the first phase of the project demonstrated the power of investing in young people, particularly young women, to drive sustainable development and climate resilience.
According to him, the initiative, themed “Empowering Youth for Gender-Responsive Climate Action,” focuses on enabling local communities to drive inclusive climate solutions while strengthening resilience among children and young people.
He said, “We saw young leaders rise with bold ideas, practical solutions, and unwavering determination. We saw young women take up space, speak with confidence, and lead conversations on sustainability and resilience.
“Climate change is not only an environmental issue but a human one affecting livelihoods, education, health, safety, and the future of our children.”
He emphasised that the new phase would prioritise empowering young activists—especially women in vulnerable situations—to lead climate initiatives and ensure their voices are included in decision-making processes.
“When young people are given the right skills, confidence, and opportunities, they become powerful drivers of change,” Erhumwunse said, urging government, civil society and the private sector to move “from token inclusion to meaningful participation.”
Also speaking, Kingsley Obiora of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development commended the organisation for its efforts and encouraged sustained commitment to youth empowerment and climate advocacy.
Similarly, Helen Idiom, Director, Programme Quality and Influencing at Plan International Nigeria highlighted the disproportionate impact of climate change on vulnerable groups.
She lamented that climate change has continued to erode the rights of girls and children, noting that women and girls bear the brunt of its effects.
In her remarks, Advocay and Campaign Officer, Save the Children Nigeria Faith Osaretin , described the initiative as a vital platform for amplifying young voices.
She said the project would enable children to speak up on climate change issues affecting their lives and communities.
Stakeholders at the event agreed that the Eco Champions Project has become a critical platform for mobilising youth-led solutions to environmental challenges in Nigeria, while fostering inclusive participation and community-driven action.
