Protest: Youth Council Alerts Affiliates, Forum Pleads For Dialogue

As momentum mounts towards the much-anticipated August 1 nationwide protests, the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has instructed its 104 affiliated youth organisations to remain on standby.
The NYCN however expressed deep concern over the severe socio-economic challenges and widespread hardship faced by citizens, especially the youth.

The council stated this in its communiqué, after an emergency meeting of the National Executive, 36 state chairmen, and other stakeholders held via Zoom from Wednesday into the early hours of Thursday.
But the Forum of Aides to Ministers & Governors on Youth & Student Affairs of Nigeria, yesterday called on the organisers of the protest to embrace dialogue for the betterment of Nigeria.

Chairman of the forum, Hon. Ifon Daniel Samuel, in a statement yesterday said, “We stand at a pivotal moment in our nation’s history, where the actions of our youth can either build a brighter future or tear apart the fabric of our society.”

The nationwide protest scheduled for August 1 to 10 has generated tension and elicited diverse reactions from Nigerians.

Various groups involved in the campaign have indicated that the demonstration is a response to the rising cost of living and the economic difficulties experienced by the people.

However, the NYCN communiqué, signed by the council’s president Sukubo Sara-Igbe Sukubo, said the organisation will hold a world press conference on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, to address the nation on current issues and its stance on the upcoming protest.

The communique dated July 24, 2024, said, “NYCN leaders acknowledged that the current socio-economic challenges facing Nigeria, including rising inflation, insecurity, unemployment, and the general hardship experienced by citizens, particularly the youth, have reached alarming levels.

“These issues have sparked widespread agitation and calls for a nationwide protest. The NYCN, as the umbrella body representing over 100 youth organisations across the country, recognizes the urgency of these matters and the need for a coordinated response.

“Top of the discussion was economic hardship. The economic situation in Nigeria has deteriorated, with inflation making it difficult for many citizens to afford basic necessities, including food.

“Also of great concern to the youth leaders is unemployment, particularly among young graduates, which has reached critical levels, contributing to frustration and restlessness among the youth.

“After extensive deliberations, the following resolutions were adopted: The NYCN commits to, in the next 4 days, consult widely with various stakeholders, including government officials, security agencies, civil society organizations, and the media, to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the issues.

“NYCN leaders advise their millions of members, 774 local government branches, wards, state and zonal chapters, NYCN in diaspora, Man O’ War, Boy Scouts, Royal Rangers, Islamic Youth League, and 100 other affiliated youth organisations to be on standby and await further direction.”

The communique reaffirmed the council’s commitment to representing the interests of Nigerian youths and to advocating for positive change in the nation.
On its part, the Forum of Aides to Ministers & Governors on Youth & Student Affairs of Nigeria, called on Nigerian youths to reconsider their approach and embrace dialogue over destruction.

Chairman of the forum, Hon. Ifon Daniel Samuel noted that the memories of the damage inflicted during the last EndSARS protests are still fresh in our minds. Critical national assets, painstakingly built over the years, were destroyed, setting back our progress and causing irreparable harm to our nation’s infrastructure.

“The consequences of such actions extend beyond immediate physical damage; they hinder economic growth, disrupt social order, and erode trust in the mechanisms designed to protect and serve the public.

“As stakeholders in the future of Nigeria, it is imperative that we channel our energies towards constructive engagement. The youth are the heartbeat of our nation, possessing the power to drive change through innovative and peaceful means.

“It is through dialogue and collaborative efforts with relevant authorities that sustainable solutions can be achieved,” Daniel said.

“We understand the frustration and the desire for swift action in addressing pressing issues. However, history has shown us that violence and destruction only lead to further hardship and division. By choosing dialogue, we open doors to meaningful conversations that can lead to lasting reforms and improvements in governance.

“We appeal to the youth to pause and reflect on the broader impact of their actions. Let us not be manipulated by those who seek to exploit genuine grievances for their own gain. Instead, let us unite with a common purpose: to build a Nigeria that is just, equitable, and prosperous for all.

To the organizers of the proposed protest, we urge you to explore the avenues of dialogue. Reach out to the relevant authorities, present your grievances, and engage in discussions that can lead to tangible outcomes.

“There are numerous examples around the world where peaceful protests and negotiations have resulted in significant positive changes. Nigeria can be one of those examples,” Daniel added.

“Let us turn the tide from a ‘Day of Rage’ to a ‘Day of Dialogue.’ Together, we can forge a path towards a better Nigeria, where the voices of the youth are heard, and their aspirations are realized through peaceful and constructive means.

“We believe in the power of dialogue. We believe in the strength of our youth. And we believe in the future of Nigeria.”