The West Africa Network for Peacebuilding (WANEP-Nigeria) has called for increased investment in youth leadership, education, innovation and civic participation to promote sustainable peace and development in Nigeria.
The organisation made the call in a statement issued to mark the 2026 International Youth Day, themed “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations.”
WANEP-Nigeria said the theme recognises that although young people live in different social, economic and political environments, they share common aspirations for peace, dignity, quality education, meaningful participation, decent work and a sustainable future.
The organisation noted that young people aged between 18 and 35 constitute more than half of Nigeria’s population, describing them as important contributors to peacebuilding, civic engagement, entrepreneurship, climate action, innovation, humanitarian response and community development.
It however lamented that Nigerian youths continued to face challenges including unemployment, insecurity, inequality, misinformation and limited opportunities to participate in decision-making processes.
Despite these challenges, WANEP-Nigeria acknowledged that young people had continued to demonstrate resilience and commitment to building peaceful and stronger communities.
According to the National Network Coordinator of WANEP-Nigeria, Bridget Osakwe, young people should be regarded as critical partners in efforts to prevent conflicts and promote sustainable peace.
“International Youth Day reminds us that while young people may come from different backgrounds and face different realities, they share common aspirations for peace, opportunity, inclusion, and a better future,” Osakwe said.
She added that creating an enabling environment for young people to participate meaningfully in decision-making was essential to Nigeria’s development.
WANEP-Nigeria said it had continued to promote awareness and implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2250 on Youth, Peace and Security and related resolutions.
It said its engagement with universities across the country had also expanded through awareness campaigns, public lectures, policy dialogues and strategic partnerships aimed at increasing students’ understanding of the Youth, Peace and Security agenda.
The organisation called on government institutions, development partners, the private sector, educational institutions, traditional and religious leaders, and civil society organisations to deepen investments in youth leadership, education, innovation, entrepreneurship and civic participation.
It said creating inclusive opportunities for young people to influence policies and contribute to national development was critical to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
