Abuja, June 12, 2026 – Nigerian youths have been encouraged to play more active roles in promoting peace, community development, and security, with renewed calls for the adoption of state policing as a strategy to tackle rising insecurity.
The call was made by Mr. Mukhtar Akoshile, Vice President of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) and Deputy Director of the City Boy Movement in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), during the second edition of a 21-kilometre marathon held in Abuja on Friday.
The event, organised by the Apo Progressive Foundation (APF) as part of activities marking Democracy Day, aimed to promote unity, healthy living, and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians.
Speaking at the programme, Akoshile argued that decentralised policing would strengthen local security efforts while creating employment opportunities for thousands of young Nigerians.
According to him, residents are often better positioned to identify security threats within their communities and provide timely intelligence that could help prevent criminal activities.
He explained that a state policing structure would enable quicker responses to security concerns since local authorities would be able to make decisions based on developments within their jurisdictions without waiting for directives from the centre.
Akoshile also criticised attempts by some political actors to use unrest and instability as tools for gaining political advantage, insisting that leadership should be attained through democratic means rather than actions capable of undermining national peace.
He urged young people to engage constructively in governance and community affairs, stressing that they possess significant influence within their local environments and should use it to promote dialogue and development.
The youth leader expressed concern over campaigns and protests demanding the removal of elected leaders, stating that nation-building requires constructive engagement, innovative ideas, and collaborative efforts rather than divisive actions.
He noted that the country’s progress depends largely on the willingness of citizens, particularly youths, to contribute positively through professionalism, entrepreneurship, and community service.
Akoshile commended the commitment of young participants at the marathon, saying their enthusiasm demonstrated confidence in Nigeria’s future despite prevailing challenges.
He also praised President Bola Tinubu for responding to some of the demands of young Nigerians, particularly in relation to youth representation in government.
According to him, sustained advocacy by youth organisations contributed to the emergence of younger individuals in leadership positions, including the appointment of Comrade Ayodele Olawande as Minister of State for Youth Development.
He said such developments offered encouragement to young Nigerians aspiring to occupy strategic positions in public service and governance.
Akoshile further applauded the organisers for leveraging sports as a platform for promoting fitness, unity, and social harmony across communities.
He extended his sympathies to families affected by insecurity, especially victims of the recent kidnapping incident in Oyo State, while expressing hope for the safe return of those still in captivity.
The NYCN vice president assured members of the foundation that the council would continue to support grassroots organisations by linking them with relevant government institutions and opportunities for growth.
He added that initiatives such as community groups and youth associations often serve as pathways to employment, empowerment programmes, scholarships, and broader participation in governance, urging young people to remain committed to positive engagement and national development.