World Assembly Wants African Youths To Lead Continental Peace, Devt In 2026

The World Assembly of Youth (WAY) Africa Regional Office has commended recent improvements in regional security while calling on African youth to take a leading role in promoting peace, stability and sustainable development across the continent in 2026.

In a New Year message, signed by Comrade Preye J. Ketebu-Brown, Vice President (Africa), and issued from its Africa Regional Office in Abuja on Thursday, WAY praised the resilience and innovation of young Africans, describing youth as the continent’s most valuable asset and a key driver of economic and social transformation.

“Africa’s greatest asset is its vibrant, dynamic and youthful population, which possesses immense potential to drive sustainable growth and development,” the statement said, noting that young people are leading change through technological innovation and agricultural entrepreneurship.

WAY also acknowledged progress made by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in strengthening national and regional security, particularly in West Africa.

According to the organisation, enhanced cooperation with the United States, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), and neighbouring countries has contributed to a more secure sub-region.

“This reinforced hope for peace and stability is critical for unlocking economic potential across the sub-region,” WAY said, adding that improved security conditions also strengthen Nigeria’s prospects to host the 17th General Assembly of the World Assembly of Youth.

The organisation urged young Africans to actively promote social harmony and peaceful leadership in their communities, emphasising that tolerance and collaboration are essential to long-term stability.

“We call on African youth to be steadfast champions of social harmony and peaceful leadership,” the statement said. “These values are the bedrock for achieving a more just, equitable and peaceful world.”

Reaffirming its mandate, WAY pledged continued support for youth empowerment across Africa through policy advocacy, youth-led initiatives and regional conferencing.

“The World Assembly of Youth remains unwavering in its commitment to ensuring the meaningful inclusion of young people in governance and all spheres of development,” the organisation said.

It extended wishes for a peaceful and prosperous 2026 to young people across the continent.