Bauchi State Police Command has used the 2026 International Youth Day celebration to promote peace, inclusion, environmental awareness and stronger community relations among young people in the state.
The three-day activities culminated in a Peace Walkathon and Sports Fiesta at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium, Bauchi, bringing together youths, police personnel, persons with disabilities, police families, community leaders and other stakeholders.
The event was organised around the theme, “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations,” with participants marching through parts of Bauchi metropolis carrying placards with messages against violence and thuggery.
The celebration also featured football, tug of war, badminton, horse riding and sketching competitions, providing participants with opportunities to interact, display their talents and promote teamwork.
Earlier, the Police Command had embarked on a mass tree planting exercise with the support of the Bauchi State Forestry Department, which donated 1,000 seedlings for distribution across schools, public spaces and police facilities.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, said the activities were part of efforts to positively engage young people and prevent them from being recruited into political violence, drug abuse, digital thuggery and other harmful activities.
According to him, sports, arts, environmental activities and community engagement could help build discipline, unity and responsible citizenship among youths.
He particularly commended persons with disabilities and barracks children who participated in the celebration, describing their involvement as important to building an inclusive society.
CP Aliyu also appreciated the Police Officers’ Wives Association, Police Community Relations Committee, Forestry Department and other stakeholders for their support.
He said the Command remained committed to youth empowerment, inclusive policing and partnerships with communities to strengthen peace and security in Bauchi State.
