International Citizen Service (ICS): Empowering Youth for Global Impact

The International Citizen Service (ICS) is a global volunteering programme that supports young people from diverse backgrounds to make a meaningful difference in some of the world’s most vulnerable communities. The initiative was launched in March 2011 by the British Prime Minister and funded by the UK’s Department for International Development (DFID) through Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO). The programme provides thousands of young people aged 18 to 25 with the opportunity to actively contribute to the fight against global poverty while developing valuable leadership and life skills. In Nigeria, ICS is implemented by VSO Nigeria in partnership with Olive Community Development Initiative (OCDI) in Kwara State. OCDI has successfully implemented the project across several Local Government Areas, including Oke Ero LGA (Ilofa, Odo-Owa, and Egosi communities), Ifelodun LGA (Oke-Ode), and Asa LGA (Apata-Ajele), with ongoing expansion into additional communities. Objectives • Promote sustainable community development • Foster youth development and leadership • Nurture active global citizenship among young people Achievements Through the programme, volunteers strengthened community participation in infrastructural projects, promoted inclusion, and supported educational advancement. Students were introduced to basic computer skills, engaged in career aspiration talks, and participated in extracurricular activities such as sports and community-driven initiatives. The ICS program reflects OCDI’s commitment to empowering young people as catalysts for sustainable development while fostering collaboration between local and global communities.