AYGF is deeply saddened by the brutal attacks on the communities of Yelewata and Daudu in Benue State, Nigeria. Reports confirm that over 200 people, many of them already displaced by previous violence—lost their lives in this senseless tragedy. The attacks, which occurred in the early hours of June 14, targeted internally displaced persons (IDPs) who had sought refuge and safety in these communities. Eyewitnesses recount horrifying scenes: families burned alive in market stalls, homes razed, and children among the victims. AYGF condemns these acts in the strongest possible terms. The targeting of already vulnerable populations is not only a gross violation of human rights but also a stark reminder of the urgent humanitarian crisis unfolding in parts of Nigeria. We call on the Federal Government, national security agencies, and international partners to: As an organization we are committed an equitable society where the voice of the vulnerable is heard and prioritized to have a dignified life. AYGF stands in solidarity with the people of Benue State. Our hearts go out to the families of the victims, and we reaffirm our commitment to advocating for justice, safety, and long-term solutions to displacement and conflict.

In a strategic move to strengthen food security and ensure effective humanitarian assistance, Africa Youth Growth Foundation (AYGF), in partnership with the World Food Programme (WFP), recently carried out a comprehensive vendor assessment exercise for the General Food Assistance – Cash-Based Transfer (GFA-CBT) project across five local government areas in Katsina State. The target areas—Batsari, Safana, Dutsinma, Kurfi, and Danmusa—have been significantly impacted by food insecurity and conflict-related displacement, prompting urgent need for well-coordinated and sustainable food interventions. This assessment marks a critical preparatory phase in the implementation of the GFA-CBT initiative, aimed at providing cash-based food assistance to vulnerable populations. The AYGF-WFP joint team embarked on a detailed mapping and assessment of local vendor shops, identifying viable markets and suppliers who can reliably support the upcoming food assistance program. The evaluation covered multiple criteria including: The goal is to ensure that vendors not only meet minimum standards of quality and reliability but are also well-positioned to serve as partners in delivering life-saving assistance. Beyond immediate humanitarian relief, the vendor assessment plays a crucial role in boosting local economies. By engaging community-based vendors, the GFA-CBT project encourages localized development and empowers small business owners, creating a ripple effect of economic growth and stability within these conflict-affected areas. According to AYGF field coordinators, local engagement is essential: “Working with local vendors allows us to tailor assistance to the needs of the people, while also stimulating economic activity within their communities. It’s a win-win approach.” With the vendor assessment completed, AYGF and WFP are now poised to roll out the next phase of the GFA-CBT project, delivering cash-based transfers to enable households to access nutritious food through local markets. The project aligns with broader objectives of resilience building, sustainable food access, and community empowerment in Northern Nigeria. As the partnership continues to deepen, the impact of this groundwork is expected to go far beyond emergency food relief—laying foundations for long-term food security and local development.

The Executive Director of AYGF, Dr Arome Salifu, led the Communications team on a courtesy visit to the Managing Editor of Leadership Newspaper Nigeria, Raliat Ahmed-Yusuf and her team. Media partnerships are paramount to organisations, especially NGOs like the Africa Youth Growth Foundation (AYGF). They play a role in disseminating information about key operations and projects, raising public awareness, enhancing partnerships, and encouraging more people to join our mission and cause. Leadership Newspaper Nigeria is a key strategic media house that asserts itself as an organisation that stands up for good governance and defends the interests of Nigerians at all times. Collaborating with them will enable us to effectively communicate our initiatives and successes to a broader audience, amplifying our impact and furthering our objectives.

AYGF Niger actively participated in the flag-off of this year’s first round of Optimized Maternal and Child Health Week (MNCHW) in Minna. AYGF, a proud sponsor of all MNCHW rounds in the state, reaffirms its support and collaboration with the Ministry of Primary Health Care and the state government. Stakeholders from ANRiN, AYGF, UNICEF, and WHO were also present, underscoring the broad support for this vital health initiative.

AYGF played a crucial role in the recent WASH in Emergencies (WiE) Technical Working Group (TWG) meeting organised by the Federal Ministry of Water Resources (FMWR). Represented by Programs Officer Imaga Oji, AYGF presented a significant report detailing the discovery of heavy metal poisoning in the Gaidau settlement of Sokoto State’s Illela LGA. This report sheds light on a severe public health crisis in the Gaidau settlement, where high levels of mercury, lead, cadmium, nickel, and zinc oxides have been detected in water, soil, and local produce. The contamination has impacted the community’s health, with 55% of water samples showing E. coli contamination. WASH is a cornerstone of public health, and its importance is magnified during emergencies when existing services are often overwhelmed. Without adequate WASH services, the spread of diarrhoea and infectious diseases can accelerate, posing a significant threat to affected populations. The TWG aims to enhance the capabilities of institutions and promote knowledge sharing and best practices in WASH management.

To commemorate 25 years of Nigeria’s Democracy, we hosted a Twitter Space  themed “25 Years of Democracy: Analysing the Role of the Youths in Today’s Democracy.” The event featured esteemed speakers such as Dr. Sam Amadi, Director of the Abuja School of Social and Political Thoughts; Motolani Oyedeji, Youth Advocate and Governance Expert; and Earnest Iyagi, a Political Analyst. The session was hosted by AYGF’s Communications Manager, Oloruntobi Adejare. With over 100 participants in attendance, the speakers delved into the current state of democracy in our society, examining its successes and failures, the challenges it faces, and reflecting on past obstacles.  We hope you join our next space in July as we continue spotlighting and X-raying more development issues.

The AYGF team led by the Executive Director Dr. Arome Salifu paid a courtesy visit to Palladium. Received by the Country Director  Oiza Nicholson, and her team, the strategic meeting touched on the need to increase impact, and performance in the development space in Nigeria. Both organisations further discussed possible working partnerships, especially in the area of technical support and exploring new opportunities.