The Plateau State Youth Council has issued a compelling call to the youth of Plateau State, urging them to reject violence, resist manipulation, and embrace peace, dialogue, and religious tolerance.
This appeal was made in commemoration of the 2026 International Youth Day, celebrated on Wednesday under the theme, “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations. Held at Crispian Hotel Jos
Chairman of the Council, Panan Gongden Dapar, emphasized that peace and security must form the foundation of the aspirations of young people in Plateau State.
He urged the youth to become ambassadors of peaceful coexistence, highlighting that the rich diversity of ethnic, religious, and cultural backgrounds among Plateau youths should serve as a source of strength rather than division.
The Council pointed out that the current security challenges in the state make it essential for youths to guard against manipulation by individuals or groups seeking to incite violence and disrupt peace.
“No meaningful development can take place where fear, violence, intolerance, and division are allowed to thrive,” the Council stated, calling on young people to engage in constructive dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution while actively contributing to their communities’ growth and development.
The Youth Council noted that this year’s International Youth Day theme resonates deeply with the Plateau experience. Despite their diverse backgrounds, the youth share common aspirations for meaningful employment, quality education, economic empowerment, peace, security, dignity, and opportunities to build a brighter future.
“Although our circumstances may differ, our hopes and aspirations across Plateau are remarkably similar,” they asserted, emphasizing the youth’s collective desire for a society where hard work is recognized and opportunities are accessible.
The Council urged the Plateau State Government, development partners, private sector operators, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to enhance investments in youth employment, skills development, entrepreneurship, and inclusive empowerment.
It called on young people to prepare for emerging opportunities by acquiring relevant digital and technical skills, embracing entrepreneurship, and participating actively in civic and political processes.
“The Plateau we desire cannot be built by others alone; we must take ownership of its future and play our part in building it,” the Council declared.
During the International Youth Day celebration, Plateau State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Musa Ashoms, conveyed the goodwill of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang to the youth.
He commended the young people of Plateau for their contributions to the state’s growth and development, encouraging them to continue serving as exemplary ambassadors in education, sports, business, agriculture, and other sectors.
Ashoms reiterated the Mutfwang administration’s commitment to supporting youth initiatives that showcase the state positively. “His Excellency, the youth-loving Governor of Plateau State, extends his goodwill and urges the vibrant youth to continue being ambassadors of our dear state,” he said.
The Commissioner recognized the “immense and immeasurable contribution” of Plateau youths to the state’s advancement, assuring them of ongoing government support for initiatives aimed at promoting their talents and creating opportunities for their development.
The Plateau State Youth Council also celebrated the achievements of young people engaged in building businesses, acquiring skills, pursuing education, creating innovations, and serving their communities.
They urged the government and other stakeholders to foster an enabling environment where the potential of young people can be fully realized.