Lagos Model UN Conference echoes strong message on Youth Inclusion, Global Responsibility

The sixth edition of the Lagos Secondary Schools Model United Nations (LASSMUN) conference was held in Lagos, sending a powerful message of youth empowerment and inclusion.

The United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Malick Fall, assured participants that the UN remains committed to standing with young people and supporting their dreams and development.

Speaking as the Special Guest of Honour, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mrs. Abisola Khadijat Dokunmu-Adegbite, encouraged students to use their passion and energy to drive positive change that can make a lasting difference in their communities.

Grace Omowunmi Ogungbamigbe, President of the Sixth LASSMUN General Assembly, pointed out key challenges facing young people across the world, including economic inequality, poor access to quality education, digital gaps, and social and cultural limitations. She called on governments, civil society, and private sector players to invest more in youth development to better prepare the younger generation for the modern workforce.

Remarks also came from other educational leaders. Dr. (Mrs.) Idowun Olufunke Oyetola, Tutor General and Permanent Secretary of Lagos Education District III, commended the United Nations for introducing the Model UN, describing it as an effective platform for engaging students on global matters. LASSMUN Secretary-General, Peter Alademehin, emphasised that the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can only be achieved if everyone works together, with young people playing a leading role.

At the end of the conference, rapporteur Al-Amee Sowemimo presented a resolution from the LASSMUN General Assembly, calling for youth to be given a seat at decision-making tables. The resolution also urged world leaders to prioritise family-focused policies and reminded governments that millions of children are still denied their right to education. As the voices of young people grow louder and more coordinated, the global community is being called upon not just to listen—but to act.