Youth Group Pledges Support For Armed Forces

A group, Democratic Youth Assembly of Nigeria (DYAN), has pledged to support the Armed Forces of Nigeria to counter propaganda and harmful narratives.

They made the commitment during a recent engagement with the Chief of Defence Staff General Olufemi Oluyede at the Defence Headquarters.

The national coordinator and chairman of the National Executive Council of DYAN,Amb. Bashir Nasiru Garki, reaffirmed commitment to supporting the Armed Forces of Nigeria through lawful, constructive, and strategic youth participation in national security efforts.

He emphasised that the initiative is designed to serve as a bridge between the military and the civilian population, particularly young Nigerians, in order to strengthen trust, improve public understanding of military operations, and promote national unity.

He reiterated the group’s readiness to collaborate with the Defence Headquarters in implementing the initiative across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, noting that the project has reached an advanced preparatory stage and requires institutional support for full-scale execution.

The organization further expressed gratitude for the symbolic Flag of Honour presented to it by the CDS, describing it as a powerful symbol of trust, partnership, and shared commitment to the peace, security, and prosperity of Nigeria.

DYAN reaffirmed its unwavering dedication to nation building and pledged continued support for the Armed Forces of Nigeria in addressing contemporary security challenges through innovative youth-driven solutions.

The CDS, represented by the director of Civil-Military Relations, Rear Admiral S. A. Lawal, expressed appreciation for the organisation’s proposed national security initiative aimed at supporting the Armed Forces in addressing emerging security challenges.

He commended the group for its patriotic commitment, innovative ideas, and sustained efforts toward strengthening national security, promoting peace, and advancing nation-building through responsible youth engagement.

According to the CDS, the Armed Forces of Nigeria recognizes and values the constructive role of Nigerian youths in safeguarding national stability, particularly in the areas of strategic communication, public enlightenment, and countering misinformation and disinformation that threaten civil-military relations and national cohesion.

The CDS applauded the organisation for its structured approach, noting that DYAN had already undertaken extensive preparatory work, including feasibility studies and stakeholder consultations with traditional rulers, civil society organizations, media practitioners, and youth groups across the country.

The group expressed optimism that the partnership with the Defence Headquarters will further strengthen national unity and enhance collective efforts toward sustaining peace and stability across the country.