12/08/2024
Commemorating International Youth Day 2024
Theme: "Youth Power: Channeling Our Passion for Positive Change"
Respected members of Arewa Youths Initiative Alliance,
On this International Youth Day, celebrated under the theme "Youth Power: Channeling Our Passion for Positive Change," we come together to commemorate the boundless energy, resilience, and determination of our youth.
Today, we celebrate the remarkable achievements and contributions of our young people in various spheres of life. From entrepreneurship and innovation to social activism and community development, our youth have consistently demonstrated their unwavering commitment to shaping a better future for themselves and generations to come.
However, the recent events surrounding the protests have brought to light the deep-rooted challenges and frustrations faced by our youth. While the protests were initially a peaceful demonstration against poor governance, corruption, and economic hardship, they took an unfortunate turn, resulting in violence, loss of innocent lives, arrests, and the destruction of public and private property.
It is with a heavy heart that I acknowledge the loss of innocent lives and express my deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones during these events.
I strongly condemn the use of excessive force against peaceful protesters and the arbitrary arrests of individuals exercising their constitutional rights. No cause, no matter how noble, can justify the loss of innocent lives or the infringement of fundamental human rights.
At the same time, I must denounce the actions of those who resorted to violence, vandalism, and looting during the protests. Burning government buildings, stealing from private citizens, and engaging in wanton destruction of property only serve to undermine the legitimate grievances and tarnish the reputation of our youth movement.
On this day, let us recommit ourselves to the ideals of peace, justice, and sustainable development. Let us channel our passion and energy into constructive dialogue, peaceful advocacy, and collective efforts to build a better Nigeria for all.
Our theme, "Youth Power: Channeling Our Passion for Positive Change," serves as a reminder that our strength lies in our unity, our resilience, and our unwavering commitment to justice and positive change through lawful means.
I call upon all our youth to exercise restraint, maintain non-violence, and uphold the principles of peaceful protest. Let us not allow the actions of a few to overshadow the noble aspirations of our youth movement.
To our government and leaders, I urge you to listen to the voices of our youth, address their legitimate concerns, and work towards creating an environment that fosters good governance, economic opportunities, and respect for human rights.
On this International Youth Day, let us renew our commitment to empowering our youth, providing them with access to quality education, skill development programs, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. By investing in our youth, we invest in the future of our nation and the world at large.
Finally, I extend my sincere appreciation to all the youth-led organizations, initiatives, and individuals who tirelessly work towards uplifting our communities and promoting positive change. Your efforts inspire us all and remind us of the transformative power of youth leadership.
Let us embrace this day as a celebration of our potential and a renewed call to action towards building a better, more sustainable, and prosperous future for our beloved nation and the world.
Long live the spirit of youth!
Long live the Arewa Youths Initiative Alliance!
Long live our great nation!
Long live Nigeria!
Comr. Mikail Abdullahi
Program Director
