NBC hosts youth-empowered programme to inspire young leaders
In commemoration of this year’s International Youth Day, the United Nations (UN) and members of the Strategy for Mentoring Initiative and Leadership Empowerment (SMILE) have emphasised the importance of engaging young people in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Secretary-General of the UN, António Guterres, who spoke at the 2025 youth leadership summit, themed “Local Youth Action for the SDGs and Beyond,” in Lagos, at the weekend, noted that young people are bold innovators, resilient organisers, and essential partners in achieving the SDGs.

Guterres, represented by the National Information Officer at the United Nations Information Centre, Abuja, Oluseyi Soremekun, said: “On International Youth Day, we celebrate the determination, creativity and leadership of young people everywhere.”

“The youths are driving sustainable development, building more inclusive communities, forging peace, and demanding a fairer, greener and more just future.”

He, therefore, called for collaborative efforts to support youth-led solutions and build a peaceful and sustainable world.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC), the official bottling partner of the Coca-Cola Company in Nigeria, yesterday, marked World Youth Day by celebrating the resilience, innovation, and impact of young Nigerians who are transforming their communities and driving inclusive growth.

At the core of the celebration is NBC’s flagship #YouthEmpowered initiative—designed to equip young people with essential life and business skills for the future of work.

As part of this year’s activities, NBC will premiere a documentary that spotlights inspiring YouthEmpowered alumni who are building businesses, leading change, and shaping brighter futures for themselves and their communities. The documentary will be available to the public on NBC’s official website, YouTube channel, and social media platforms.