The Inspector General of Police of the Nigeria Police Force, Tunji Disu, on Saturday formally adopted the declaration of peace, responsible citizenship and democratic participation by the Abuja youths.
The formal adoption followed the youth declaration as a commitment at the main event for the International Youth Day 2026 Initiative celebration, held at Soul Lounge Resorts, Jahi, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.
During the declaration by selected youths among the participants in the hall, which was filled, they promised to reject political violence, thuggery, cultism, crime and all forms of manipulation that would threaten their future.
The youths, who also declared their commitment to peace, unity and security of the nation, stated that they would reject misinformation, disinformation, cyberbullying, hate and digital manipulations.
Among other declarations, the youths promised to work in partnership with the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant institutions to promote safer communities and responsible citizenship, and not allow themselves to be used for violence and destruction.
The IGP, who commended Nigerian youths for the declaration, assured that the police would continue to engage, listen to, and work with young Nigerians as partners to build a safer, more peaceful and prosperous nation.
He urged the youths not to make the declaration just a document, but to live by the commitments made, and make it a guide to their choices, civic participation, conduct offline and online, as well as relationships with their communities.
The highlight of the event was the public presentation and launch of the book ‘Esteemed Youths,” written by ACP Olabisi Okuwobi and distributed freely among the youths and other participants at the event.
There was also a presentation of 15 awards in different categories to youths, among whom is Nigeria’s youngest chartered accountant, 16-year-old Osasere Okundaye.
In her vote of thanks, ACP Okuwobi, who coordinated the historic event carried out by the police, appreciated the IGP for his support and responsiveness throughout its planning and execution.
ACP Okuwobi also thanked the Force Management Team, as well as officers, personnel and participants, especially the Nigerian youths, who contributed to the programme’s success.
She enjoined the young Nigerians to take the messages to their schools, communities, homes, workplaces and social networks, telling them to always remember their future, which is greater than political and digital thuggery.