By Event Diary Lifestyle
BOCA Energy Resources Ltd has called for greater investment in young people as the company joined organisations around the world to mark International Youth Day 2026.
The company, in a statement issued on Wednesday, August 12, reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment, skills development, innovation, responsible leadership and sustainable economic growth.
International Youth Day is observed annually on August 12 following its designation by the United Nations General Assembly. The theme for the 2026 observance, “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations,” focuses attention on the shared aspirations of young people for dignity, opportunity, inclusion and meaningful participation in shaping their future.
Marking the occasion, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of BOCA Energy Resources Ltd, James Ukachukwu, described young people as one of the world's most important assets and called for stronger efforts to equip them with the knowledge and opportunities required to contribute to economic and social development.
Ukachukwu said the role of young people should no longer be viewed solely through the traditional idea of youths as “leaders of tomorrow”, arguing that young people are already contributing to innovation, entrepreneurship, technology, energy transition and economic transformation.
“On this International Youth Day, we celebrate the energy, creativity, resilience and determination of young people across the world. The future does not simply belong to the youth; it is being created by them every day through their ideas, courage and capacity to innovate,” he said.
He stressed that meaningful youth development requires more than symbolic recognition, urging governments, businesses, educational institutions and other stakeholders to create practical pathways for young people to acquire relevant skills, build sustainable careers and participate meaningfully in society.
According to him, young people need access to education, mentorship, professional opportunities and supportive environments where their abilities can develop.
“We must move beyond speaking about young people as leaders of tomorrow and recognise them as partners in building the world of today. Every young person deserves access to knowledge, opportunity, mentorship and an environment where talent can flourish,” Ukachukwu said.
He also encouraged young Nigerians and young people globally to embrace continuous learning, integrity, innovation and perseverance as they navigate an increasingly competitive and technology-driven economy.
Ukachukwu urged young people to remain confident in their abilities while understanding the importance of discipline and resilience in achieving their goals.
“To every young person, I say: believe in your potential, acquire knowledge, develop your skills and never allow temporary setbacks to define your future. Success is built through discipline, resilience, character and the courage to keep moving forward,” he said.
The BOCA Energy Resources chairman further highlighted the role of businesses in supporting youth development.
He said companies could contribute by creating opportunities for skills acquisition, employment, entrepreneurship and professional development, noting that stronger investment in young people ultimately contributes to stronger communities and more resilient economies.
The company also called on governments, businesses, educational institutions and other stakeholders to develop more inclusive platforms that allow young people to participate in decision-making, entrepreneurship, technological innovation and sustainable development.
The call comes as youth development remains an important part of discussions around economic growth, particularly as technology continues to reshape employment, entrepreneurship and the skills required in the modern workplace.
The United Nations has continued to emphasise the importance of young people's participation in sustainable development, inclusive governance and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.
For BOCA Energy Resources, the 2026 International Youth Day observance provides an opportunity to reinforce the need for young people to combine ambition with responsibility, ethical conduct, innovation and service.
The company said empowered and skilled young people would remain central to building more prosperous, inclusive and sustainable communities.
As International Youth Day is observed around the world, BOCA Energy Resources extended its greetings to young people globally and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that create opportunities for youth development and sustainable economic participation.