Tiv Youth Organisation Commends IGP for Recognising Role of Youths in Nation Building

By JOSEPH UNDU

The President General of the Tiv Youth Organisation Worldwide (TYO), Comrade Andy Aondongu Anzah, has commended the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, for acknowledging the crucial role of Nigerian youths in nation-building.

Comrade Anzah made this statement during an interview with newsmen on Monday at the NPF Resource Centre, Jabi, Abuja. 

The interview was conducted during the Nigeria Police Youth Summit, organised to commemorate the UN International Youth Day. 

The summit, themed “Enhancing the Nigerian Youth’s Value for National Security Intelligence,” aimed to engage youths in national security efforts, promote their contributions, and address challenges facing the nation.

The Tiv youth leader was represented at the event by Chief Joseph Saater Undu, President of the Tiv Youth Organisation Abuja Chapter, who was accompanied by the Secretary General of the Chapter, Engr. Fanen Ukange, and another stakeholder, Comrade David Kwaghgande.

He said, “On this momentous occasion of International Youth Day, we extend our warmest congratulations to the Nigeria Police Force for organising this summit. We commend your efforts in acknowledging the vital role of youth in nation-building.

“With over 50% of Nigeria’s population comprising youths, according to a 2020 report by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs, it is evident that young people are the driving force behind the country’s progress. As such, it is essential that the organisation supports and promotes initiatives that secure the future of our nation.

“It is in light of this that the Tiv Youth Organisation chose not to participate in the recent nationwide protest. Our decision was guided by our commitment to peaceful coexistence, respect for law and order, and our belief in constructive dialogue as a means of resolving conflicts and securing a prosperous future for generations to come.

“As a responsible youth organization, we recognise the importance of stability and security in our nation. We have chosen to channel our energies towards positive engagement, community development, and collaborative problem-solving.

“We appreciate the Nigeria Police Force’s efforts in maintaining peace and order and pledge to continue working together towards a harmonious and prosperous Nigeria.”

The Tiv Youth Organisation is a socio-cultural organisation representing Tiv youths globally. Established in 1988, it is the second registered socio-cultural group in Nigeria. 

The organisation’s mission is to promote, protect, and support the interests of Tiv youths and Nigerian youths at large.

Dignitaries who graced the occasion included the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, who was represented by the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim; the Minister of Police Affairs, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Police Affairs, Mr. James Sule; and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, who was represented by Maj. Gen. PP Malla, the Director of Defence Affairs.

The summit also saw attendance from various presidents and heads of national youth organisations, including the National Youth Council, the National Youth Coalition, the Tiv Youth Organisation Worldwide, and several other key youth leaders.

Other dignitaries included the Chairman of the Police Service Commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu (Rtd), and representatives of various service chiefs and paramilitary organisations.

The summit featured a keynote address by Prof. Lanre Fagbohun, which focused on the importance of youth inclusivity in key areas of national security, reward systems for youth development, and sponsorship programs to encourage youths and promote national growth.

The event also included a panel discussion that provided an avenue for several youth leaders and representatives in attendance to seek clarifications and understanding of vital issues and propose solutions to the challenges facing the country.

In his address, the President recognised 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 IGP, in his address, reiterated his belief in Nigerian youths and their crucial role in achieving national security and sustainable development.