International Alert Nigeria has warned that the country risks losing the energy and skills of its large youth population to crime, migration and social instability unless stronger opportunities are created for participation in governance, peacebuilding and the economy.
The warning was issued at the Young Change Makers Summit in Abuja, which focused on youth leadership, climate resilience, peace and democratic participation.
International Alert’s Nigeria leadership said the country’s young population could become one of its greatest development assets if properly supported.
It warned, however, that continued exclusion could push talented young people toward migration, crime or disengagement.
Young Nigerians were encouraged to channel the same creativity and determination visible in other areas into community development, peace initiatives, environmental action and responsible civic engagement.
The organisation stressed that personal initiative alone was not enough and called on federal, state and local governments to create systems that give young people genuine voice and opportunity.
It acknowledged existing government and development partner programmes but said the scale remained too small compared with the size of Nigeria’s youth population.
A senior adviser to the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs urged young Nigerians to speak against social problems while remaining within the law.
He also highlighted vocational programmes covering areas such as fashion, welding, electrical installation and agricultural technology.
According to him, some beneficiaries had received start up kits and stipends after training to help them move toward economic independence.
Youth Development Ministry adviser Azeezat Yishawu said young people should not only be invited to observe national development but should also be enabled to lead.
She noted that insecurity and conflict often affected youth access to education and opportunity and could turn young people either into agents of violence or champions of peace.
Participants agreed that Nigeria’s demographic advantage would only translate into development if young people were given skills, platforms, economic opportunities and a meaningful role in decision making.
