In a significant move to engage the youth in national security discussions, Nigeria held a youth summit in the capital, Abuja, on August 14, 2023. This event, organized by the United Nations and Nigerian police, aimed to address the role of young people in enhancing national security intelligence, following recent nationwide protests against government policies.

Key Takeaways

• The summit was attended by over 400 delegates, including government officials, security agencies, and youth representatives.
• The theme of the summit was "Enhancing the Nigerian Youth’s Value for National Security Intelligence."
• Interactive sessions focused on crime prevention, conflict resolution, and community engagement.
• Authorities acknowledged the protests’ potential for criminal exploitation while emphasizing the importance of youth involvement in security matters.

Context of the Summit

The youth summit was organized in the wake of the "Ten Days of Rage" protests that began on August 1, 2023. These protests were primarily led by young Nigerians expressing their frustrations over the rising cost of living and the government’s economic policies, particularly the removal of fuel subsidies. The protests, which were met with a heavy security response, resulted in tragic outcomes, including the deaths of at least 22 protesters, according to Amnesty International.

Objectives of the Summit

The summit aimed to create a platform for dialogue between the youth and security agencies, fostering a collaborative approach to national security. Nigerian police chief Kayode Egbetokun emphasized the need for a united effort to empower the youth, stating, "Together we must pledge to support, empower and create a brighter future for all."

Engaging the Youth

During the summit, various interactive sessions were held, allowing participants to discuss critical issues such as:

• Crime Prevention: Strategies to reduce crime rates through community involvement.
• Conflict Resolution: Techniques for addressing disputes peacefully.
• Social Media: Utilizing technology for effective communication and intelligence gathering.
• Community Engagement: Building trust between the police and local communities.

Prince Abdulsalami Ladigbolu, president of UNESCO’s Read and Earn Federation, highlighted the importance of recognizing youth as change agents. He stated, "It is imperative that our young people understand their potential to influence and drive positive change."

Addressing Trust Issues

Olanrewaju Fagbohun, a former professor and co-founder of a law firm, delivered a keynote address focusing on the trust gap between security agencies and the youth. He noted that the protests revealed two distinct groups: those with genuine grievances and those with ulterior motives. This underscores the necessity for ongoing dialogue and understanding between the youth and security forces.

Conclusion

The youth summit represents a crucial step towards integrating young Nigerians into the national security framework. By fostering dialogue and collaboration, authorities hope to harness the energy and creativity of the youth to address pressing security challenges. As Nigeria navigates its complex socio-economic landscape, empowering its youth will be vital for building a safer and more inclusive future.

Sources

• Nigeria holds youth summit on national security after protests, Voice of America English News.