Experts Call For Government Engagement With Nigerian Youth As Key To Peace

Abuja, Nigeria – A panel of experts has emphasised the critical need for Nigerian political leaders to bridge the gap with the country’s youth population at a recent International Day of Peace event.

Participants and discussants

This, they contended, is critical to containing the rising tide of violence and extremism.
The United States Embassy in Abuja organised the event, which was themed “Cultivating a Culture of Peace.” Rev. John Hayab of Nigeria’s Global Peace Foundation delivered the keynote speech, emphasising the importance of a peaceful environment for national development.
“Youth engagement is not a nice-to-have; it is a must-have,” Hayab said. “They must feel the government’s influence in their lives, be committed to the country, and be able to direct their energy positively.”
Other panellists, including Dr. Abdulfattah Adeyemi, Director of the Baynakum Family Counselling Centre in Abuja, expressed similar sentiments.
He cautioned against ignoring young Nigerians’ concerns, emphasising that “looking at the calm surface is not the true peace.”
Adeyemi urged the government to create opportunities for youth engagement, such as employment and education. “These are young people who know how to enjoy themselves.
“They must be given the tools to do so, to contribute positively to society, and to recognise that a culture of peace is a positive force,” he stated.
Dr Rev. Sam Oye, the founder of Transforming Church International Abuja, emphasised the importance of inclusivity in leadership.
“It is not enough to just give them positions; we also need to give them a say in policy and program development,” he stated.
“The government should actively engage with the youth, listen to their concerns, and learn what they want.”
Mr Rafiu Adeniran Lawal of the Building Blocks for Peace Foundation added that youth, despite facing challenges, continue to yearn for peace.
“They just need help to function effectively as peacemakers,” he said.

He emphasised that young Nigerians, who are already making significant contributions to the country’s development, deserve to have a voice and the opportunity to shape their future.
The panel’s message struck a chord with the audience, with many agreeing on the importance of increased youth participation in politics.
The call for increased government focus on young Nigerians’ needs and aspirations is a ray of hope in the fight for peace and a more prosperous future for the country.