The Society For the Welfare of Unemployed Youths of Nigeria (SWUYN) is celebrating its 10th anniversary. This special event will take place at the De Elis Event Center, DSC Expressway, Udu, Delta State. As part of the Youth Unemployment Day activities, one of the guest speakers, Warefa Pereke will share how digital tools can create real change. We spoke with him about his upcoming session on using social media to influence government policy.
Q: You will be speaking on media advocacy. Why is this topic important?
Pereke: Media and digital platforms have changed how we ask for help. Today, youth voices can influence policy and drive social change faster than ever before if they are used the right way.
Q: What key message will you deliver at the event?
Pereke: It is “Using Media and Social Platforms to Amplify Youth issues and influence Policy.” Today, young people must move past just posting on social media and commenting on unnecessary issues. We need structured advocacy. Using facts, digital campaigns, and talking directly to leaders can turn online chats into real results.
Q: How can SWUYN members specifically use media to fight unemployment?
Pereke: Unemployed Youths can use media to show the world the talent they have in Nigeria. They can also use it to hold leaders accountable for not creating jobs. It is about moving from complaining to proposing solutions that the government can see and implement.
Q: How can youths effectively use media for policy influence?
Pereke: By organizing campaigns, using data, working with journalists, and telling strong stories, youths can effectively use media to influence policy. Yes, advocacy must be planned and focused on solving problems, not creating problems.
Q: What mistakes do youths commonly make in digital advocacy?
Pereke: Many people get angry online but don’t follow up. Even if they follow up, they do so with needless protest that will eventually disrupt the entire process . True change takes time. It requires honest information and very clear requests from the people in power. Today, youths should peacefully advocate for changes. They should do so consistently.
Q: How do you feel about SWUYN reaching its 10th anniversary?
Pereke: It is a great achievement. Ten years of supporting unemployed youths shows that this organization is serious and dedicated. I am honored to be part of this milestone.
Q: What should participants expect from your session?
Pereke: An explanation session. I will give youths five keys they need for digital advocacy and show them how to make their voices heard by the the people in power.
Q: Final message to unemployed youths?
Pereke: Your voice matters. Use media wisely, tell your stories well, and work together. When you speak as one, you can change policies and create new opportunities that will benefit all.
Conclusion
Comr. Warefa Pereke made it clear that a smartphone is a powerful tool for change. As the Society For the Welfare of Unemployed Youths of Nigeria celebrates 10 years of empowering youths, their goal is to turn unemployment into opportunities and influence change. Make sure to join this important event at De Elis event center, DSC Expressway, come March 10 to 12, 2026.
