By Paul Williams
Inspector‑General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu has called on Nigerian youths to shun political violence, digital thuggery and misinformation while embracing leadership, innovation and responsible citizenship.
A statement by Force Public Relations Officer CSP Ani Iniedu said the IGP made the call on Thursday, 20 August 2026, while speaking at the three‑day National Youth Leadership and Security Dialogue in Abuja.
The programme, which ran from 20 to 22 August 2026 under the theme “Different Contents, Common Aspiration”, was organised to commemorate International Youth Day 2026 as part of the National Youth Security and Peacebuilding Initiative.
Designed to promote youth inclusion, peacebuilding, innovation and responsible citizenship, the event brought together youth leaders, government representatives, civil society and security stakeholders to discuss national security, digital responsibility, civic participation, entrepreneurship, cybersecurity, innovation and mental health.
Disu urged young Nigerians to reject political violence, criminal manipulation and digital thuggery, stressing that no political ambition is worth the future of any Nigerian youth.
He charged them to choose peace, leadership, innovation and responsible citizenship over violence, hate, misinformation and other forms of destructive conduct.
The IGP reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to protecting democratic participation, securing communities and partnering with young people and relevant stakeholders to build a safer, more peaceful society. He said the dialogue provides a platform for youths to contribute meaningfully to national development and democratic stability.
Disu further expressed confidence that the three‑day engagement will produce practical outcomes that strengthen youth participation, community safety and national peace.
The programme drew participation from government representatives, development partners, youth leaders, the Police Officers’ Wives Association, the Police Community Relations Committee, civil society groups and other stakeholders.
Day One focused on youth leadership, security and national development, with sessions on national security, digital responsibility, civic participation, entrepreneurship, cybersecurity, innovation and mental health.
