The Coalition of Nigerian Youths on Security and Safety Affairs (CONYSSA) has called on Nigerian youths to take the lead in promoting peace, security, national unity and sustainable development.
The coalition described young Nigerians as a critical national asset whose energy, creativity and resilience could help address insecurity and accelerate the country’s development.
The Director-General of CONYSSA, Amb. Ade-Mario Emmanuel, made the call in a statement commemorating the 2026 International Youth Day, themed “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations.”
Emmanuel said the annual observance was not only an opportunity to celebrate the achievements, ingenuity and resilience of young people, but also a reminder of their responsibility to contribute to building a peaceful, just and secure Nigeria.
> “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.
CONYSSA urges youths to reject violence, crime
The CONYSSA Director-General urged young Nigerians to reject violence, cultism, kidnapping, terrorism, cybercrime, drug abuse, ethnic and religious intolerance, hate speech and other activities capable of threatening the country’s peace and stability.
He encouraged youths to become ambassadors of peace by embracing dialogue, volunteerism, entrepreneurship, civic responsibility and active participation in community-based initiatives that promote safety and social cohesion.
“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,” Emmanuel said.
Group calls for greater investment in Nigerian youths
Emmanuel noted that young Nigerians were making significant contributions to entrepreneurship, technology, agriculture, education, sports, public service and the creative industry.
However, he expressed concern that millions of youths still face unemployment, limited access to opportunities and other socio-economic challenges.
He therefore called on the Federal Government, state governments, development partners, private-sector organisations and civil society groups to increase investments in youth education, skills acquisition, innovation, job creation and leadership development.
According to him, empowering young people remains one of the most effective ways of promoting national security and sustainable development.
> “When youths are empowered, they become partners in development rather than victims of circumstance. Investing in young people is investing in a peaceful, secure and prosperous Nigeria,” he said.
CONYSSA reaffirms commitment to youth participation
The Director-General reaffirmed CONYSSA’s commitment to promoting youth participation in peacebuilding, security advocacy, policy dialogue and community engagement.
He said the coalition would continue to organise awareness campaigns, leadership development programmes and strategic partnerships with government institutions, security agencies and other stakeholders.
Emmanuel added that CONYSSA would continue to support initiatives aimed at strengthening the capacity of Nigerian youths to contribute meaningfully to national security while promoting responsible citizenship, national unity and respect for the rule of law.
CONYSSA commends young Nigerians
The coalition also commended young Nigerians serving in the Armed Forces, Nigeria Police Force, security and emergency agencies, healthcare institutions, educational establishments, humanitarian organisations and other sectors of the economy.
Emmanuel described their contributions and sacrifices as evidence of the patriotism, courage and resilience of Nigerian youths.
“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.
CONYSSA congratulated Nigerian youths on the occasion and urged them to remain united in promoting peace, patriotism and responsible citizenship for the progress and development of the country.
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