FIC Report (Edo State) – As the global community commemorates International Youth Day observed on August 12th, 2026, the West Africa Network for Peacebuilding (WANEP-Nigeria) has intensified its efforts to foster peace and stability across Nigeria.
The 2026 theme, “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations,” highlights that although young people live in diverse social, economic, and political conditions, they share universal aspirations for peace, dignity, quality education, decent work, and a sustainable future.
In her remarks, the National Network Coordinator, Dr. Bridget Osakwe, stated: “International Youth Day reminds us that while young people may come from different backgrounds and face different realities, they share 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.”
Dr. Osakwe further noted that “investing in young people today is an investment in a more peaceful, resilient, and prosperous Nigeria tomorrow.”
She reiterated that actively engaging Youth and Women not only reduces their vulnerability to radicalisation but also enables them to take on vital roles in early warning mechanisms, local mediation, and community policing efforts.
WANEP-Nigeria noted that young people aged 18 to 35 constitute over 50% of Nigeria’s population. Despite challenges such as unemployment, insecurity, inequality, misinformation, and limited access to decision-making, the network said Nigerian youth continue to demonstrate leadership in peacebuilding, entrepreneurship, climate action, innovation, humanitarian response, and community development.
The Organisations also leverages its strong institutional ties with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to enhance regional early warning capabilities and expand its engagement with state institutions and grassroots networks to establish a more structured and community-owned peace architecture.
As Nigeria continues to face mounting security threats, WANEP-Nigeria has reinforced its grassroots interventions to tackle the increasing human security threats confronting the country. The Organisation’s regional collaboration remains crucial to the pursuit of enduring peace and human security for all Citizens.
By Egwaoje Amarachi Linda
ACI&PRO, FIC Benin.
August 12th, 2026.
