The former Head of State, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar (Rtd) has identified unemployment and poverty as some of the factors that influence violence and extremism in the country.
Gen. Abubakar asserted the celebration of the International Day of Peace 2024 held at the Lecture Hall of the Abdulsalami Abubakar Institute for Peace and Sustainability Development Studies, Minna.
“Poverty and unemployment are breeding grounds for violence and extremism. To build a peaceful Nigeria, we must tackle these roots.
“Peace is the bedrock of any nation’s progress. Without peace, development is stifled, opportunities are lost, and society stagnates.
“Today, Nigeria faces numerous challenges that threaten the culture of peace we seek to cultivate. These challenges range from insurgency and terrorism to ethno-religious conflicts, youth unemployment, and economic instability.
“To build a peaceful Nigeria, we must tackle these root causes of instability through policies that promote inclusive growth, job creation, and equitable resource distribution,” he declared.
The former Head of State noted that these challenges were issues of governance, political tension, and the persistent inequality that continues to divide the people.
“The task of building a peaceful society belongs to all of us. Every community, every leader, and every citizen has a role to play in ensuring that peace prevails.”
“We must invest in our youth, empowering them with education and opportunities that steer them away from violence and unrest. Our educational institutions should promote values of tolerance, dialogue, and peaceful resolution of conflicts. Schools must become breeding grounds for unity, where students learn not only academic skills but also the virtues of peaceful coexistence,” Gen. Abubakar said.
On marginalization, he said youth and women must be involved in the decision-making process, while development must meet the needs and aspirations of the people, especially those who have been historically disadvantaged.
“We must engage in constructive conversations about the issues that divide us, from resource allocation to ethnic tensions. A commitment to justice, fairness, and inclusivity will help us address the grievances that have long fueled conflicts in Nigeria,” he added.
- Post-Election Unrest: Bamendjou Ruler Urges For Restraint - October 30, 2025
- Federal Government Pays Universities N2.3bn As Salary Arrears - October 30, 2025
- Lamido Denies Chairmanship Form At PDP HQ, Threatens Court Action - October 27, 2025