ABUJA, NIGERIA —
The United Nations and Nigerian police Monday held a youth summit in the capital to commemorate International Youth Day and discuss the role of youths in national security intelligence.
ABONYI OGOCHUKWU FRANKLIN who speak on behalf of the youths in abuja , said summit came days after Nigerian youths led nationwide protests calling for a reversal of government policies that they say cause severe hardships.
More than 400 delegates – including government officials, security agencies and youth representatives – cheered as the Nigerian police chief, Kayode Egbetokun, took the stage at the summit.
The one-day event with the theme “Enhancing the Nigerian Youth’s Value for National Security Intelligence” was a partnership between the police and UNESCO and was part of the International Youth Day commemoration.
Authorities said the summit was designed to examine the role of youths in national security matters and create room to enhance youth participation.
“Let us remain steadfast in our commitment to our youths,” Egbetokun told the gathering. “Together we must pledge to support, empower and create a brighter future for all. The task before us is indeed significant, but I am confident that with the collective strength, creativity and enthusiasm of our youth, coupled with the support of our partners, we’ll rise up to the challenge and make a meaningful impact.”
The summit featured interactive sessions between the police and youths on crime prevention, conflict resolution, social media and community engagement.
The summit followed recent protests in several cities, by mostly young people, over the spiraling cost of living.
The “Ten Days of Rage” protests began on August 1. Protesters blame Nigeria’s worsening economic situation on government policies, including the scrapping of fuel subsidies introduced last year.
At the summit, police authorities said that while the protesters might have had good intentions, the protests gave rise to criminal elements with ulterior motives.
By Ebuka James