Youths From North And South Call For National Unity Ahead Of 2027

Youths from northern and southern Nigeria converged in Kaduna on Saturday to sign a peace accord aimed at fostering national unity and strengthening their role in the country’s political and economic development. The event, held at Arewa House, was organised by the National Youth Alliance and brought together representatives from the South-East, South-South, South-West, and northern regions.

The agreement, titled “The Birthing of a New Nigeria,” commits young Nigerians to reject ethnic and religious divisions and speak with a unified voice in the interest of national cohesion and democratic stability ahead of the 2027 elections.

In his address, the Vice Chairman of the National Youth Alliance (North), Abubakar Mohammed-General, criticized the longstanding manipulation of youths by political elites for personal gain. He emphasized that misinformation and ethnic and religious divisions have historically turned young people into tools of conflict rather than partners in development.

“For decades, politicians and elites have used us to gain power and relevance, dividing us along religious and ethnic lines. Misinformation has kept us seeing ourselves as enemies,” General said.

Representing southern delegates, Vice Chairman Meshack Onyeche reaffirmed the non-negotiable nature of national unity, insisting that youths across the country are determined to resist divisive narratives.

“Nigeria can never be divided. Nigeria is our country. Nobody can divide us,” Onyeche stated, highlighting the burdens youths face from political instability, economic hardship, and social dislocation, often being exploited to advance narrow interests.

The Convener of the National Youth Alliance, Aliyu bin Abbas, recounted the evolution of the group, noting that it initially sought political party registration but was denied by the Independent National Electoral Commission. Despite this setback, the movement continued its activities and eventually evolved into a nationwide youth movement. Abbas expressed concern over the persistent exploitation of youths by leaders prioritizing personal and familial interests over national development.

“The reality today is that our leaders have long misled the youths, focusing only on their families,” he said.