The Youth Assembly of Nigeria (YAN), North Central Ambassadors, has called on governments at all levels to prioritize youth inclusion, peacebuilding, and sustainable development in the North Central region of the country. The call was made during a press conference held at the BGL Suites and Hotels in Jos, Plateau State, on October 29, 2025 addressed by Ambassador Adams Nda Kesuwo, the National Deputy Chief Whip of the Assembly and Vice chairman YAN North Central Region alongside other representatives of the North Central regions.
Amb. Kesuwo, speaking on the theme “Emerging Leaders for Peace and Unity: Shaping the Future of Governance and Development,” emphasized the urgent need for renewed leadership and youth participation in nation-building, especially in addressing insecurity and economic decline across the region.
Reflecting on the Region’s Journey
The North Central region, comprising Plateau, Benue, Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger, and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, has long been regarded as the nation’s “food basket” and the “umbilical cord” holding Nigeria together.
However, Amb. Kesuwo lamented the region’s decline over the years, tracing it from post-civil war neglect to recent waves of insecurity and economic stagnation.
He commended former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, for his principles of equity, equality, and reconciliation, which, according to him, remain critical values for rebuilding the region’s stability.
Insecurity and the Region’s Struggles
Highlighting the worsening security situation, Kesuwo noted that the North Central has suffered heavily from banditry, kidnapping, terrorism, and communal clashes.
“From Benue to Plateau, Nasarawa to Kwara, no state has been spared,” he said, citing recent attacks in Kwara’s Pategi, Lafiagi, and Ifelodun areas, and persistent assaults on communities in Benue and Plateau States.
He described the establishment of the North Central Development Commission (NCDC) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a welcome development and a long-awaited response to the region’s agitation for equitable federal intervention.
Commending State Governments’ Efforts
Despite security challenges, Amb. Kesuwo commended several state governments for ongoing development initiatives:
Nasarawa State for its infrastructure drive and investments in solid minerals and youth empowerment;
Benue State for its agro-processing and road projects;
Kogi State for township renewal and youth employment programs;
Kwara State for its efforts toward industrialization and peacebuilding despite recent attacks;
Niger State for Governor Umaru Bago’s agricultural revolution aimed at transforming the state into a food production powerhouse; and
Plateau State, which he lauded for urban renewal, tourism development, and strengthening of security through Operation Rainbow.
Youths as Partners in Progress
Amb. Kesuwo stressed that Nigerian youths must no longer be regarded as “leaders of tomorrow” but as leaders of today.
“We should be seen as partners in progress. Government must involve youths in decision-making processes and governance,” he stated, urging investment in technical education, entrepreneurship, and agriculture to tackle unemployment and restiveness.
Recommendations for Development
The Youth Assembly outlined several recommendations, including:
The NCDC should prioritize youth empowerment and establish skills acquisition centers in all 115 local government areas of the region.
Scholarship opportunities for postgraduate studies abroad should be created for at least 10 students per LGA annually.
The federal government should consider establishing state police and a regional army to strengthen security and promote true federalism.
State governments should support local innovation, entrepreneurship, and governance reforms.
Specific Proposals for Plateau State
As the host of the press conference, Plateau State received special commendation for its development initiatives under Governor Caleb Mutfwang, alongside additional recommendations:
Expedite construction of the new Jos Main Market at Mararaban Jama’a.
Establish a truck and trailer terminal to reduce road congestion and generate revenue.
Construct a new overhead bridge and dual carriageway from British–American Junction through Farin Gada to Bauchi Road.
Re-establish three technical colleges across the senatorial districts to enhance vocational training.
Create a 15-storey Trade Center to boost commerce.
Privatize key state assets such as the Jos Zaria Road Stadium, Jos International Breweries, and Plateau Hotels to reduce governance costs and focus on human capital development.
Conclusion
Amb. Kesuwo concluded by urging political and community leaders to work with renewed commitment and integrity toward restoring peace and prosperity in the North Central region.
“The quest for development is not a tea party—it requires vigor, vision, and sustained effort,” he said.
“Long live the North Central Region, and long live Nigeria.”
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