Monday 19 February 2024

OLUWAKEMI AREOLA, DRIVES YOUTH EMPOWERMENT FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

Vivacity Development, under the visionary leadership of Oluwakemi Areola, a steadfast advocate for youth empowerment, reaffirms its strategic commitment to fostering the growth and potential of young individuals within the green economy. Simultaneously, the organization harnesses Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for Research and Development (R&D), aiming to catalyze innovation and sustainability.



In a world where environmental consciousness is paramount, Oluwakemi Areola, as the Founder and CEO, recognizes the pivotal role of youth in shaping a sustainable future. By placing a strong emphasis on capacity development, the organization aims to equip young people with the essential skills and knowledge needed to excel in the evolving landscape of the green economy.


Key Initiatives:


1. Green Economy Training Programs: Vivacity Development is launching specialized training programs concentrated on the green economy. These initiatives will cover crucial areas such as renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and environmental conservation, empowering young individuals to contribute to a greener world.


2. ICT Integration for R&D: Embracing the transformative power of technology, Vivacity Development incorporates cutting-edge ICT for Research and Development. This approach aims to foster innovation in sustainable practices, environmental conservation, and eco-friendly solutions.


3. Collaborations with Industry Leaders: Oluwakemi Areola spearheads collaborations with industry leaders in the green economy and ICT sectors. These partnerships offer young participants real-world insights, mentorship, and opportunities to engage in impactful projects.


4. Youth-Led Initiatives: Vivacity Development actively encourages youth-led initiatives by providing a platform for young innovators to showcase their ideas. The organization believes in the potential of the younger generation to drive positive change and, through mentorship and support, aims to amplify their impact.


Oluwakemi expresses enthusiasm about the initiative: _"At Vivacity Development, we believe in the power of youth to shape a sustainable future. By investing in their capacity development and leveraging ICT for R&D, we are fostering a generation of environmentally conscious and innovative leaders. Our commitment to the green economy goes hand-in-hand with our dedication to utilizing technology for research and development. Together, these initiatives empower young individuals to be at the forefront of positive change."_


Vivacity Development invites stakeholders, partners, and the public to join in supporting these initiatives and contributing to a more sustainable and resilient future. The first event for 2024 will be held at the University on Abuja on the 22nd February 2024.


The goal of this project, under Oluwakemi Areola's leadership, is to inspire and catalyze transformative actions that promote sustainable development, enhance workforce readiness for the digital age, and accelerate the transition to a green economy. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, promoting best practices, and facilitating capacity building, they seek to create tangible impacts contributing to a more sustainable and prosperous future.


About Vivacity Development:


Vivacity Development is an Abuja-based organization dedicated to empowering youth through capacity development programs. With a focused approach on the green economy and leveraging ICT for R&D, Vivacity Development aims to create a sustainable and innovative future for the younger generation.

Wednesday 6 December 2023

VIVACITY DEVELOPMENT STEALS THE SPOTLIGHT AT COP 28 SIDE EVENT, EMPOWERING YOUTH AND UNVEILING ECONIGERIA PLEDGE

Vivacity Development, a trailblazer in sustainable initiatives, orchestrated an extraordinary side event during the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP 28), bringing together a distinguished ensemble of dignitaries and handing the reins to the youth for an inspiring occasion.



The event which was sponsored by Uganda Airlines showcased the groundbreaking initiative, the "EcoNigeria Pledge: Personal Climate Commitments." With a commitment to engage and empower over 20 million Nigerians, this innovative project encourages individuals from diverse backgrounds to take personalized actions against climate change.


Youth leaders took center stage during the event, steering discussions and initiatives aimed at fostering environmental responsibility. Their active involvement underscored the crucial role young voices play in shaping the future of our planet.




Dignitaries in Attendance:

- Hon Sunday Dare

- Senator Tokunboh Afikuyomi

- Senator Yinus Akintunde

- SAP info and strategy Bayo Onanuga

- SSAP SDGs Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire

- SSAP media Tunde Raman

- Executive Governor Lagos State Babajide Sanwo-Olu (represented)


Featured Speakers:

- Bayo Adams

- AkinWole Omoboriowo

- Kemi Areola

- Titi Oshodi


Key dignitaries present at the side event expressed their support for the EcoNigeria Pledge, recognizing its potential to drive positive change on a national scale. The interactive session allowed attendees to understand the importance of individual contributions in the fight against the climate crisis.



The highlight of the event was the official launch of the EcoNigeria Pledge, where participants were encouraged to make personal commitments to sustainable practices. This pledge serves as a catalyst for building a collective consciousness around environmental responsibility.


Vivacity Development remains steadfast in spearheading initiatives that empower communities and individuals to actively participate in the global effort to combat climate change. The success of this side event at COP 28 marks a significant step forward in the journey toward a sustainable and resilient future for Nigeria and the planet.


For more inquiries, please contact:


Oluwakemi Ann-Melody Areola

ann@Vivacitypr.com


About Vivacity Development:

Vivacity Development is a leading organization dedicated to fostering sustainable practices and environmental stewardship. Through innovative initiatives and collaborative efforts, Vivacity aims to inspire positive change and contribute to a resilient and ecologically conscious future.


https://pledge.vivacitydevelopment.org/

Friday 1 December 2023

VIVACITY DEVELOPMENT SHINES SPOTLIGHT ON CLIMATE CHANGE AWARENESS AT COP28 WITH CEO KEMI AREOLA AS HOST

Dubai, UAE — Vivacity Development is thrilled to announce its participation in the United Nations Climate Change Conference of Parties (COP28) with a compelling side event hosted by the esteemed CEO, Kemi Areola. The event, scheduled for Monday, December 04, 2023, from 4-6 pm at Expo City, Dubai, UAE (Safe Zone), will focus on "Climate Change Awareness - Nigeria's Action Plan."



Event Overview:

As the world unites to address the pressing issue of climate change, Vivacity Development is proud to contribute with a thought-provoking side event, featuring Kemi Areola as the host. The event aims to raise awareness about climate change, with a specific focus on Nigeria's comprehensive action plan.


Key Details:

- Date: Monday, December 04, 2023

- Time: 4-6 pm

- Location: Expo City, Dubai, UAE (Blue Zone)


Main Topic:

The main theme of the side event revolves around "Climate Change Awareness - Nigeria's Action Plan." This pivotal discussion will illuminate Nigeria's determined efforts in combating climate change, underscoring the importance of global collaboration.


Subtopics:

1. Human Health as It Affects Women and Young People:

Exploring the impact of climate change on the health of women and young people, this subtopic emphasizes the need for targeted strategies and interventions.


2. Adaptation and Resilience Strategies:

Delving into the adaptation and resilience strategies implemented by Nigeria, this subtopic will showcase successful initiatives and lessons learned.


3. Encouraging Individual Action:

Focusing on inspiring and empowering individuals to take action against climate change, this subtopic underscores the role of individual choices and behaviors in creating a sustainable future.


Contact Information:

For further details about the event and participation, please contact:

@Vivacitydevt 

Email: info@vivacitypr.com

www.vivacitydevelopment.org


Vivacity Development's side event at COP28UAE is poised to be a dynamic platform for fostering meaningful discussions on climate change. 

Monday 20 November 2023

CONSULATE-GENERAL OF THE KINGDOM OF NETHERLANDS IN LAGOS, PARTNERS WITH VIVACITY DEVELOPMENT

The Consulate-General of the Kingdom of Netherlands in Lagos and Vivacity Development are pleased to announce their partnership for Vivacity upcoming side event at Dubai COP 28, focused on Climate Change Awareness: Nigeria's Action Plan. The event is scheduled to take place on December 4th, 2023, at 4pm.



The side event aims to bring together key stakeholders, experts, and policymakers to discuss and highlight Nigeria's action plan in combating climate change. With the theme of Climate Change Awareness, this event will shed light on the urgent need for collaborative efforts to address the challenges posed by climate change and emphasize the importance of sustainable development in Nigeria.


The partnership between the Consulate-General of the Kingdom of Netherlands in Lagos and Vivacity Development signals a shared commitment to addressing climate change and promoting sustainable practices. By joining forces, the two organizations aim to create a platform for knowledge exchange, dialogue, and actionable solutions to mitigate the impacts of climate change in Nigeria.


The event will feature distinguished speakers who are leading authorities in the field of climate change, including representatives from the government, international organizations, academia, and civil society. They will share insights, best practices, and innovative approaches to foster climate resilience and sustainability in Nigeria.


Engr. Oluwakemi Areola, CEO of Vivacity Development, expressed her enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "We are honored to collaborate with the Consulate-General of the Kingdom of Netherlands in Lagos for this event. By bringing together diverse stakeholders, we can collectively drive positive change and contribute to Nigeria's efforts in combatting climate change."


The Climate Change Awareness: Nigeria's Action Plan side event promises to be an engaging and insightful platform for knowledge sharing, networking, and fostering partnerships. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of Nigeria's climate change challenges, as well as innovative strategies and practical solutions for a sustainable future.


For more information please contact Oluwakemi at @vivacitydevt  


About the Consulate-General of the Kingdom of Netherlands in Lagos:

The Consulate-General of the Kingdom of Netherlands is committed to fostering bilateral relations, promoting sustainable development, and addressing global challenges such as climate change. Through partnerships and collaborations, the Consulate seeks to create meaningful impact and contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future.


About Vivacity Development:

Vivacity Development is a leading organization dedicated to driving sustainable development in Nigeria. Through research, capacity building, and stakeholder engagement, Vivacity Development aims to create positive change and build a resilient future for Nigeria.

Thursday 9 November 2023

YOUTH AND TECHNOLOGY INSIGHTS UNVEILED BY OLUWAKEMI IN ITV INTERVIEW

Yesterday, CEO Vivacity Engr Oluwakemi Areola had the pleasure of engaging in a dynamic conversation on tech and youth-related matters during this morning's show on Independent Television. The discussion delved into the intersection of technology and the youth demographic, exploring topics that resonate with the current landscape of innovation and societal dynamics.



They explored the role of technology in shaping the experiences of young individuals, discussing how it influences their education, career choices, and overall lifestyles. The conversation highlighted the impact of digital advancements on a wide range of learning methodologies and the importance of empowering the youth with the skills necessary to thrive in an increasingly evolving world.


Additionally, they delved into the challenges faced by the youth in navigating various landscapes, addressing issues such as government engagement, financing, and the need for responsible and ethical communication.stratergies. The discussion aimed to not only acknowledge the opportunities that Nigeria presents but also to foster a deeper understanding of the potential bottlenecks and ways to navigate them successfully.


Throughout the show, Engr Oluwakemi  proffered  potential solutions in various fields, providing her personal perspectives on the evolving relationship between governments and the youth demographic. 


She said 

"By fostering an open dialogue, we aim to bridge the gap between generations, encouraging a mutual understanding of the transformative power of communications and its benefits for the future.'


The viewers had the opportunity to gain valuable insights into the evolving dynamics of the tech-driven world and its impact on the aspirations and challenges faced by the youth. 


She also highlighted that 


"As Nigeria continues to navigate the ever-changing landscape of technology and society, these discussions serve as a crucial platform for fostering awareness, understanding, and collaboration among all generations.'

Saturday 21 October 2023

DISCOVER THE FUTURE OF CLIMATE CHANGE IN OUR EXCLUSIVE PRE-EVENT WEBINAR

Vivacity Development is excited to announce an exclusive pre-event webinar that will set the stage for our upcoming UAE COP28 Side Event. This informative and engaging session is designed to give participants a glimpse into the exciting world of Climate Change and Nigeria’s Action plan, offering a sneak peek into what to expect from the main event.


Event Details:

Title: Pre-Event Webinar: Climate Change Awareness: Nigeria’s Action Plan


Date: Tuesday 24th October 2023


Time: 2pm


Platform: Zoom


Registration Link: https://bit.ly/VivacityDevt-Cop28-ZoomLink


About the Pre-Event Webinar:

The pre-event webinar is a unique opportunity for participants to gain early insights into the key themes, discussions, and experts that will be featured during the main COP 28 side event set to hold in Dubai, UAE. Our expert speakers will provide valuable perspectives on Nigeria’s Action Plan, share industry trends, and offer a taste of the knowledge and inspiration that await attendees at the full event.



Registration:

Participation in the pre-event webinar is free, but registration is required. To secure your spot and receive access to the event, please register at  https://bit.ly/VivacityDevt-Cop28-ZoomLink


About Vivacity Development 

Vivacity Development is a social enterprise organisation. We are committed to fostering Sustainable Development around the World.


Contact:

For media inquiries or more information about the pre-event webinar, please contact:


Oluwakemi Areola

Vivacity Development 

@vivacitydevt 

+2348137603115


Don't miss this exciting opportunity to get a head start on Climate Change and Nigeria’s Action Plan. Join us for the pre-event webinar to kick off the discussion and be part of the UAE COP28 conversation. We look forward to seeing you there!

NIGERIAN YOUTH ADVOCATES SET TO HOST YOUTH SIDE-EVENT AT COP28 IN DUBAI


Nigerian youth advocates are gearing up to make a powerful impact on the global stage as they prepare to host a significant youth side-event at the upcoming COP28 summit, set to be held in Dubai, UAE.


The event is convened by former Special Assistant on Youth, ICT, and Corporate Relations to the immediate past Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Kemi Areola, and will be organized by Vivacity Development, an organization dedicated to promoting positive change and development.


Areola, who is the CEO of Vivacity PR and Vivacity Development, is at the helm of the initiative. With her wealth of experience and dedication to youth empowerment and climate action, she is set to steer the event towards a brighter future.


According to Areola, the focus of the event is of paramount importance, as it zeroes in on critical issues affecting the African continent, particularly its youth and women, in the context of climate change.


She further stated that the event’s theme, “Climate Change Awareness - Nigeria's Action Plan,” encapsulates the urgency and importance of these topics on the global stage.


Among the topics slated for discussion at the event are: human health as it affects women and young people; adaptation strategies resilience building; and the power of individual actions in the fight against climate change.


"This initiative builds on the success of a previous Nigerian youth side event, which was held in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, in November 2022, organized by the Nigerian Ministry of Youth and Sports. The event was aptly tagged  “Youth and Climate Change,” underscoring the pivotal role young individuals play in addressing climate-related challenges,"  Areola emphasized.


"During last year’s youth event, a tree planting project named “Project 250k” was launched, aiming to combat the adverse effects of climate change in Nigeria."


As we approach COP28 in UAE, the Nigerian youth advocates, led by Kemi Areola and supported by Vivacity Development, are poised to drive climate action and awareness to new heights. "Together, they will chart a course towards a more sustainable future, one that acknowledges the importance of Africa’s youth, women, and climate change in shaping our shared destiny.”

Wednesday 15 March 2023

$600M FOR YOUNG NIGERIANS IN TECHNOLOGY, CREATIVE SECTORS READY AS OSINBAJO LAUNCHES SCHEME

Funding by AfDB, France, Islamic Devp. Bank, BOI for young Nigerians ages 15-35

 

VP calls on African Governments, private sector to invest more in innovation, targeting job creation

 

AfDB President commends VP’s dynamic leadership, says “you are an amazing leader in our nation, you are very focused, very determined…”

 

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, today launched a $600 million programme for young Nigerians in the technology and creative sectors with a call on African governments and the private sector to do more to support the growth of innovation in the continent.



The Vice President spoke at the presidential launch of the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (i-DICE) Programme, held at the State House Banquet Hall, Abuja. The programme will support young Nigerians ranging from ages 15-35 who are entrepreneurs and involved in early stages in creative, innovative and technology-enabled ventures. 


“I think it is now imperative to commence a coordinated approach towards innovation on the continent, bringing together all stakeholders to coordinate efforts at scaling up investments and building programmes that provide the right enabling environment and produce talent pipelines that support the growth of innovation on the continent,” Prof. Osinbajo said in his keynote address at the event.

 

Under i-DICE, constraints such as access to capital, and capacity limitation of Start-ups would be effectively addressed. But according to the VP, more needs to be done to scale up such programmes.

 

In his words, “the government must provide more support for startups and small businesses, and investors must provide more funding. This is why the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises Programme is important.”

 

i-DICE is supported by funding from the African Development Bank (AfDB)-$170m, the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB)-N70m and the Agence Française de Développement-$116m. There is also Federal Government of Nigeria counterpart contribution of $45 million through the Bank of Industry loans for qualifying start-ups.


On behalf of the Nigerian government, the Vice President thanked the development partners for their collaboration.


Commending the efforts of the development partners, the Vice President noted that the programme’s design “supports innovation across very critical pillars including policy, infrastructure, access to finance and talent. These pillars have been identified as very critical to the growth and sustenance of innovation on the continent.”

 

The VP disclosed that “the total fund is $618 million, out of which the AFDB provides $170million, the Agence Francaise de development $116m and the Islamic Development Bank will provide $70 million in co-financing.” Another $271m is expected from private sector and institutional investors, he noted.


Similarly, Prof Osinbajo observed that the launch of the (i-DICE) Programme was a significant milestone by the Nigerian government in its continued efforts in harnessing the potential of its youth population and creating more jobs.

 

Beyond job creation, “the programme is a government initiative to promote innovation and entrepreneurship in the digital tech and creative industries and especially targeted at job creation,” the VP added.


Speaking about the Buhari administration’s efforts in supporting the growth in the tech and innovation sectors, the VP noted that, “as a government, we have consistently provided support to the innovation ecosystem over the last 8 years. In 2018, we established the Technology and Creativity Advisory Group. The Advisory Group brings together stakeholders in the technology and creative industries, to contribute directly to policy formulation, articulation and the design of the technology and creative sectors of our economy.”

 

“The Group has influenced various government policies for the growth of the economy.


For instance, the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, working with NITDA has established a Center for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics, the Ministry has also led the coordination of our partnership with Microsoft to increase Nigeria’s technology talent pipeline by training 5 million Nigerians in various technology skills,” Prof. Osinbajo said.

 

The Vice President also recalled how President Muhammadu Buhari  signed Nigeria’s Startup Bill into law, making it the Nigeria Startup Act and also highlighted the essence of collaboration between the private sector and government in scaling up such programmes.

 

He stated that there has been an influx of private capital which has enabled startups “to expand operations and create new jobs while contributing significantly towards overall GDP growth of the country. There are of course thousands of startups that have used private funds or debt that goes unrecorded.”

 

The VP referenced Disrupt Africa’s 2022 Tech Funding Report which indicated that “Nigeria was the best-funded country in Africa for the second year running, with a minimum of 180 startups, making up approximately 30% of Africa’s funded ventures, raising approximately $1billion - substantially ahead of all other countries on the continent on both counts.”


The Vice President commended development partners for their support, and also thanked the AfDB President, Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina, for his role in bringing the idea to fruition.

 

On his part, the President of the African Development Bank, Dr Akinwunmi Adesina commended the Federal Government’s commitment to the actualization of the initiative, particularly the leadership of the VP in creating “the enabling environment for the development of start-ups, as well as position Nigeria as Africa’s leading digital technology centre.”

 

He said “today, I will thank you, my brother, the Vice President. You have been an amazing leader in our nation, you are a very focused and very determined person, as your time ends, may God continue to be with you and guide you in whatever lies ahead of you.”


He added that the i-DICE Programme is “timely, strategic, and transformative as it will build the ecosystems to support more competitive entrepreneurs powered by digital technologies.

 

“That is why we like i-DICE: it is visionary, sees the future and prepares Nigeria for it. That future is here. Every aspect of life is being transformed digitally.“

 

Goodwill messages were delivered by the Ministers of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Mrs Zainab Ahmed; Industry, Trade and Investment, Otunba Niyi Adebayo; Science and Technology, Sen. Adeleke Mamora; Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed; the representative of the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy; the French Ambassador to Nigeria, Amb. Emmanuelle Blatmann; and the representative of the Managing Director of the Bank of Industry, Mr Olukayode Pitan.


Laolu Akande,

Senior Special Assistant on Media & Publicity to the President,

Office of the Vice President.

14th March, 2023

COMMONWEALTH LAUDS NIGERIA'S COMMITMENT TO YOUTH DEVELOPMENT AHEAD OF AFRICA SUMMIT

During the pre-summit meeting held at the Nigerian embassy in the United Kingdom on the sidelines on the Commonwealth Youth Network Leaders Summit, Layne Robinson Head of Social Policy of Commonwealth Secretariat commended the Nigerian Government for its continued commitment to youth development.

In his remarks, he thanked Nigeria for offering to host the Commonwealth Youth Secretariat in Abuja and offering to host the Commonwealth Youth and Students Summit for the African region. 




The pre- summit meeting had in attendance members of the summit taskforce and youth networks leaders from 54 Commonwealth countries attending the youth network leaders summit in London.

The Commonwealth Youth and Students Summit for the African region will hold in Abuja from 7th to 11th May 2023. It aims to bring together youth and students to amplify their voices and contribute  meaningfully to youth development in the areas of entrepreneurship, education, and digital divide.

Expected participants of the summit are national youth and students organisations in the 21 Commonwealth member countries in Africa .

The summit will be hosted by the Nigerian Government in collaboration with the Commonwealth Youth Council, Commonwealth Students Association and Pan African Youth Union.

The Honourable Minister of Youth and sports, Mr Sunday Dare said Nigeria is ready to host the young people of the Commonwealth and, "Although the event is being hosted by the Nigerian government the ownership of the events belongs to the youth."

The Minister also said that the thematic areas chosen by the youth task force are apt for this post covid era that has cast a shadow on decent jobs and wealth creation for young peope as we know it.

The Minister, who was represented by his Special Assistant on Youth and ICT, Ann Kemi Areola, reassured the youth of Nigeria's commitment to youth development in Africa and informed them that Abuja looks forward to hosting  them.  

Mr Benjamin Fraser, Chairperson of the Commonwealth Students Association said, "The Summit will provide a great opportunity for the youth and students in Africa to network and partner with youth and students organisations.




"This offer by the Government of Nigeria is huge and the Commonwealth Students Association are incredibly grateful. It is important to emphasize more on implementing the outcome of this Summit because the thematic areas which are; entrepreneurship, digital education, and decolonization of education curricular. These are very relevant to the yearnings of the youth and students in Africa."

In her remarks, Christabel Derby, the Deputy Chairperson on Inclusion in the Commonwealth Youth Council(CYC) said, "the CYC appreciates the support to host its secretariat by the Nigerian Government at last year's Commonwealth Youth Ministerial taskforce meeting during in Kigali, Rwanda.

Sushil Ram, Program Manager and Youth Adviser of The Commonwealth Secretariat, in the closing remarks, emphasised the need to ensure proper planning and strategy
as he reiterated the need for the youth task force to commence necessary activities within strict timelines in order to achieve the desired objectives from the summit in the weeks to come.

Tuesday 21 February 2023