The West Africa Network for Peacebuilding, WANEP-Nigeria, has called for greater investment in youth leadership, education, innovation and civic participation as Nigeria joins the global community to commemorate International Youth Day 2026.
A statement by the National Network Coordinator of WANEP-Nigeria, Dr. Bridget Osakwe says in marking the annual observance, young people aged between 18 and 35 constitute more than half of Nigeria’s population and continue to make significant contributions to peacebuilding, civic engagement, entrepreneurship, climate action, innovation, humanitarian response and community development.
Speaking on the theme, “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations”, WANEP says it celebrates the resilience, innovation and leadership of young people in advancing sustainable peace and development.
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It said the theme highlighted the shared aspirations of young people across diverse social, economic and political contexts, including the desire for peace, dignity, quality education, meaningful participation, decent employment and a sustainable future.
It, however, said young Nigerians continue to face challenges including unemployment, insecurity, inequality, misinformation and limited opportunities to participate in decision-making.
WANEP-Nigeria said that despite the obstacles, young people had consistently demonstrated resilience and a strong commitment to building safer, stronger and more peaceful communities.
It emphasised that the organisation remained committed to promoting awareness and implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2250 on Youth, Peace and Security, YPS and related resolutions.
WANEP-Nigeria said it had expanded its engagement with universities across the country through awareness campaigns, public lectures, policy dialogues and strategic partnerships designed to deepen students’ understanding of the Youth, Peace and Security agenda.
Dr.Osakwe noted that the International Youth Day was a reminder that young people, despite coming from different backgrounds and facing different realities, shared common aspirations for peace, opportunity, inclusion and a better future.
“Nigeria’s young people are already demonstrating leadership in their communities, and it is our collective responsibility to create enabling environments where they can thrive, participate meaningfully in decision-making, and contribute to sustainable peace and development,” Dr. Osakwe revealed.
She said investing in young people was an investment in a more peaceful, resilient and prosperous future of Nigeria.
Dr. Osakwe urged 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.
She stressed that creating inclusive opportunities for young people to influence policies and contribute to national development would be critical to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
WANEP-Nigeria also reaffirmed its commitment to working with young people across the country to strengthen peacebuilding, promote dialogue, encourage active citizenship and build resilient communities where every young person has an opportunity to realise their aspirations.
The International Youth Day is observed annually to draw attention to issues affecting young people and recognise their contributions to society and global development.
