Adejoh Bilkisu
The Coalition of Nigerian Youths on Security and Safety Affairs (CONYSSA) has challenged young Nigerians to take the lead in fostering peace, security and national unity, declaring that the country’s youthful population remains its greatest strength in tackling insecurity and accelerating sustainable development.
The charge was made by the National President of CONYSSA, Amb. Ade-Mario Emmanuel, in a statement signed by Maryam Aminu, Director, Directorate of Media, CONYSSA, marking the 2026 International Youth Day, themed “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations.”
Describing the annual celebration as more than a recognition of the resilience and achievements of young people, Ade-Mario said it should also serve as a call to action for youths to actively shape a more peaceful, secure and prosperous Nigeria.
According to him, Nigeria’s quest for lasting peace and sustainable development cannot be achieved without the active involvement of its youth, whom he said have continued to demonstrate courage, innovation and resilience despite prevailing economic and security challenges.
“Nigeria cannot attain lasting peace and sustainable development without the active participation of its young people. Across our communities, young Nigerians have continued to demonstrate courage, innovation and resilience despite prevailing economic and security challenges. These qualities must now be channelled towards nation-building, conflict resolution and community development,” he said.
The CONYSSA President urged young Nigerians to shun violence, cultism, kidnapping, terrorism, cybercrime, drug abuse, ethnic and religious intolerance, hate speech and every other act capable of undermining the country’s peace and stability.
He instead encouraged them to embrace dialogue, volunteerism, entrepreneurship, civic responsibility and active participation in community-based initiatives that promote safety, peaceful coexistence and social cohesion.
Ade-Mario stressed that safeguarding Nigeria’s security is a collective responsibility, insisting that every citizen, particularly young people, has a role to play in building safer communities.
“Every young Nigerian has a role to play in safeguarding our communities. National security is not the exclusive responsibility of security agencies; it is a shared responsibility that demands patriotism, vigilance, mutual respect and collective action. Our future depends on the choices we make today,” he stated.
While acknowledging the remarkable achievements of Nigerian youths in entrepreneurship, technology, agriculture, education, sports, public service and the creative industry, he expressed concern that millions still grapple with unemployment and limited access to opportunities.
He therefore called on the Federal Government, state governments, development partners, private sector organisations and civil society groups to deepen investments in education, skills acquisition, innovation, job creation and leadership development, describing youth empowerment as one of the most effective pathways to national security and sustainable development.
According to him, creating an enabling environment for young people to realise their full potential would transform them into partners in national development rather than victims of socio-economic circumstances.
The CONYSSA President reaffirmed the coalition’s commitment to promoting youth participation in peacebuilding, security advocacy, policy dialogue and community engagement through sustained awareness campaigns, leadership development initiatives and strategic partnerships with government institutions, security agencies and other stakeholders.
He also commended young Nigerians serving in the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force, other security and emergency agencies, healthcare institutions, educational establishments, humanitarian organisations and various sectors of the economy, describing their sacrifices as evidence of the patriotism and resilience of the nation’s youth.
“As we commemorate International Youth Day 2026, let this occasion inspire every young Nigerian to become a bridge-builder, a problem-solver and a champion of peace. Together, we can build a nation where security is strengthened, opportunities are expanded and every young person has the platform to succeed,” he said.
He added that CONYSSA would remain steadfast in mobilising Nigerian youths towards building safer communities, strengthening national unity and advancing sustainable development.
Amb. Ade-Mario concluded with a congratulatory message to Nigerian youths on the occasion of the 2026 International Youth Day, urging them to remain united in promoting peace, patriotism and responsible citizenship for the nation’s progress.
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