In this day and age where digital technologies are influencing every aspect of our lives, the potential to accelerate sustainable development has never been greater. From mobile devices and services to artificial intelligence (AI), these technologies are not only driving economic progress but also helping to address social and environmental issues. This year, the International Youth Day is celebrated with the theme “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development,” recognising the key role of digital technology in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Data generated via digital interactions promotes evidence-based decision-making, contributing to at least 70% of the 169 SDG targets and potentially lowering the cost of reaching these goals by up to USD 55 trillion (UN DESA Voice, 2024).

Navigating Nigeria’s Digital Revolution
Despite technological advancement, Nigeria still has a considerable digital gap, particularly among low-income communities and young women. Digital inclusion is essential for achieving environmental justice, as it ensures that all communities are protected from environmental harm. However, this digital gap, signified by unequal access to digital technology, remains a significant barrier and hampers the ability of a large proportion of the youth population to contribute to sustainable development and environmental justice. In Nigeria, this gap is seen in the disparities between urban and rural areas, as well as across socio-economic classes, particularly among young women and marginalised populations.

The development of digital infrastructure has improved access to information for environmental advocacy in urban areas like Lagos and Abuja. However, participation in environmental initiatives is hampered in rural areas by inadequate digital literacy and internet access. For instance, it may be difficult for farmers in rural Nigeria to access weather predictions and sustainable farming practices, which results in substandard farming practices and environmental damage.

Nigerian women are disproportionately affected by the impacts of climate change on agriculture, health, and socio-economic dynamics (BudgIT Foundation, 2024). For instance, women in rural areas often rely on conventional energy sources, which exacerbates indoor air pollution and deforestation. In Nigeria, there is a 34% gender gap in internet usage, according to USAID (2023), with women having less access to digital opportunities and skills than men. This hampers the ability of these women to access digital technologies that may support their advocacy for sustainable practices and cleaner environments.

Way Forward
Young people drive digital adoption and innovation. In 2022, three-quarters of individuals aged 15 to 24 used the internet, more than any other age group (UN DESA Voice, 2024). This group is commonly referred to as “digital natives,” as they are skilled at leveraging technology for different purposes (Pfanner, 2013). As the 2030 deadline for the SDGs approaches, youths play an increasingly important role in digital innovation to solve global concerns.
Nigerian youths can leverage digital technologies to track environmental concerns, create awareness about them, and mobilize communities to take action. For example, young activists may utilise Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to map pollution hotspots and advocate for air quality improvements.

They can also use social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to advocate for environmental awareness and action.
The government can also take action to promote digital inclusion and support young Nigerians in advocating for sustainable environmental practices.

Fundamentally, it is imperative to incorporate digital literacy into the educational curriculum to prepare students early on to use digital knowledge and tools for environmental monitoring and advocacy. The government may fund youth-led projects, research, and start-ups that use digital technologies to promote environmental justice. Providing grants, mentorship, and platforms for young innovators may help them scale their ideas and boost their impact.

Targeted programmes can also be developed to increase digital access for young women, allowing them to participate in environmental initiatives and decision-making.

Providing affordable internet access, digital skills training, and resources tailored to this demographic will help in bridging the digital gender gap and ensure their voices are heard in environmental advocacy.