The federal government on Thursday unveiled the “Young & Secure Project,” an initiative to build trust between young Nigerians and the police and ensure that the youth are secured.
Ministers of State for Police Affairs and Youth Development, Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim and Ayodele Olawande, respectively, presented the project and a joint press briefing at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Speaking, Suleiman-Ibrahim described it as “a core initiative aimed at restoring trust, strengthening collaboration, and renewing the hope of young Nigerians in the Police Force.”
She said the goal of the project is to enhance the collaboration between the youth and the police towards strengthening national security.
She added: “It elevates the role of the Nigerian youth in the security architecture of the nation, as the platform empowers this very vibrant segment of the society to be watchguards, and active participants in ensuring the safety and security of their communities.
“The essence of this initiative is rooted in the belief that we are all police, each with a responsibility to contribute to the protection and well-being of our nation.
“As a young person who has travelled widely and internationally, I must say, that the Nigerian youth embody an indomitable spirit.
“Despite the myriad challenges we face, our spirit remains unbroken, our determination unwavering. It is this indomitable spirit that must be harnessed and celebrated, for it holds the key to unlocking our nation’s full potential.
“It is for this very reason, that the Young & Secure Project is designed to tap into the resilience and energy of our youth, channelling it towards constructive engagement and nation-building efforts.”
On his part, the Minister of State for Youth Development noted that the country had grappled with significant challenges in bridging the gap between its youth and law enforcement agencies.
He posited that the erosion of trust and understanding between “these vital segments of the society” underscored the urgent need for proactive and innovative solutions.
He added: “It is within this context that the Young & Secure” initiative emerges as a critical platform to address this pressing issue and forge a new era of collaboration, respect, and mutual empowerment between our youth and law enforcement agencies.”
The minister said the collaborative effort between the Ministry of Police Affairs and the Ministry of Youth Development “reflects our collective determination to address the root causes of discord and mistrust.”
He further said: “At its core, the Young & Secure program is not merely about enhancing security measures or implementing top-down directives. It is about empowering our youth to become active participants in the process of nation-building while also equipping our law enforcement officers with the necessary tools and training to serve with integrity and professionalism.”
He informed that the project comprises three main blocks including a pact that seeks to enhance civic commitment from young Nigerians, as well as government commitment to the security needs of young people; youth-focused engagement that permeates youth culture, and a transparency, accountability, and reporting platform that is technology-driven and effective in prompt reporting and resolution of issues.
He urged all stakeholders to embrace this opportunity for collaboration and dialogue.
“To be clear, our commitment extends beyond mere speeches; we will reflect the echoes of young Nigerians in concrete actions and policies aimed at empowering them to actively participate in shaping the future of our country,” Olawande declared.
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