The Youth Assembly of Nigeria (YAN), North Central Ambassadors, has called on governments at all levels to prioritize youth inclusion, peacebuilding, and sustainable development across the North Central region. The group made this appeal during a press conference held at BGL Suites and Hotels, Jos, Plateau State, on October 29, 2025.
The event, addressed by Ambassador Adams Nda Kesuwo, National Deputy Chief Whip of the Assembly and Vice Chairman of YAN North Central Region, centered on the theme “Emerging Leaders for Peace and Unity: Shaping the Future of Governance and Development.”
Amb. Kesuwo emphasized the need for renewed leadership and increased youth participation in governance, stressing that involving young people is vital to addressing insecurity and economic challenges in the region.
Reflecting on the region’s history, Kesuwo described the North Central as Nigeria’s “food basket” and “umbilical cord,” but lamented its gradual decline due to neglect, insecurity, and poor governance. He commended former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, for his enduring principles of equity, equality, and reconciliation.
Highlighting the worsening security situation, Kesuwo noted that the North Central has suffered heavily from banditry, kidnapping, terrorism, and communal clashes.
“From Benue to Plateau, Nasarawa to Kwara, no state has been spared,” he said, citing recent attacks in Kwara’s Pategi, Lafiagi, and Ifelodun areas, and persistent assaults on communities in Benue and Plateau States.
He welcomed the establishment of the North Central Development Commission (NCDC) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing it as a long-awaited response to the region’s agitation for fair federal intervention.
“We should be seen as partners in progress. Government must involve youths in decision-making processes and governance,” he stated, urging investment in technical education, entrepreneurship, and agriculture to tackle unemployment and restiveness.
The Youth Assembly outlined key recommendations for regional development. Among them were the creation of skills acquisition centers across all 115 local government areas, and scholarship opportunities for at least ten students per LGA to study abroad annually.
“The federal government should consider establishing state police and a regional army to strengthen security and promote true federalism,” the Assembly proposed.
Amb. Kesuwo also commended state governments for their efforts, noting progress in infrastructure, agriculture, youth employment, and industrialization across Nasarawa, Benue, Kogi, Kwara, Niger, and Plateau States.
“The quest for development is not a tea party—it requires vigor, vision, and sustained effort,” he said. “Long live the North Central Region, and long live Nigeria.”
He further urged political and community leaders to embrace integrity, unity, and collective action to restore peace and prosperity in the North Central region.
In security is becoming worst day in day night you guys should emphasize on this issue of insecurity.
Because we most learn to live in peace to day the make a brighter feature tomorrow.
As our slogan peace, so peace we pray for for
From a concern citizen miskoom cristian samta