The Nigeria Police high command today, hosted a historic Youth Summit at the Police Resource Centre, Jabi, Abuja, where it engaged young people drawn from the six geo-political zones on the need to shun violence.
The event commemorated the United Nations International Youth Day. The event signifies the commitment of the Inspector-General of Police to the enhancement of national security through youth inclusivity and engagement.
The event themed “Enhancing The Nigerian Youth’s Value for National Security Intelligence”, aimed to engage youth in national security efforts, promote their contributions, and address challenges facing the nation. In attendance, was the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was represented by the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Dr Jamila Bio Ibrahim, the Honourable Minister of Police Affairs, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Police Affairs, Mr. James Sule, National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, who was represented by Major General PP Malla, the Director of Defence Affairs.
The summit also had in attendance, various presidents and heads of national youth organizations, the national youth council, the national youth coalition, and several other key youth leaders. Other dignitaries included the Chairman Police Service Commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu (Rtd), and representatives of the various service chiefs and paramilitary organisations.
The summit highlighted an address by the keynote speaker; Prof. Lanre Fagbohun, which focused on the importance of youth inclusivity in key areas of national security, reward systems for youth development and sponsorship programmes to encourage youths and promote national growth. It also featured a panel discussion which gave an avenue for several youth leaders and representatives in attendance to seek clarifications and understanding of vital issues and solutions to several challenges facing the country.
In his address, the President recognized the vital role of the youths in shaping the nation’s future and reaffirmed his commitment to engaging young minds and empowering them to reach their full potential, promising to build a generation of leaders, thinkers and change-makers who will shape the future of the nation and the world.
Describing the event as a vital turning point, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun
, in his address reinstated his belief in the Nigerian Youths and their vital role in achieving national security and sustainable development. The insights and ideas generated in this summit will contribute to enhancing national security intelligence and promoting youth development and the Federal Government and the Nigeria Police Force remain committed to supporting and empowering the youth to reach their full potential.