The Youth Assembly of Nigeria (YAN), North Central Ambassadors, has called on governments at all levels to prioritize youth inclusion, peacebuilding, and sustainable development across the North Central region.

The call was made during a press conference held on Tuesday, October 29, 2025, at BGL Suites and Hotels in Jos, Plateau State. The briefing was addressed by Ambassador Adams Nda Kesuwo, National Deputy Chief Whip of the Assembly and Vice Chairman of YAN North Central, alongside other regional representatives.

Speaking on the theme “Emerging Leaders for Peace and Unity: Shaping the Future of Governance and Development,” Amb. Kesuwo emphasized the urgent need for renewed leadership and greater youth participation in addressing insecurity and economic decline in the region.

Reflecting on the Region’s Journey

Kesuwo described the North Central—comprising Plateau, Benue, Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger, and the Federal Capital Territory—as the “food basket” and “umbilical cord” of Nigeria. He lamented its gradual decline, which he attributed to post-civil war neglect and recent waves of insecurity and economic stagnation.

He commended former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, for his legacy of equity, equality, and reconciliation—values he said are essential to rebuilding the region’s stability.

Insecurity and the Region’s Struggles

Kesuwo expressed concern over the worsening insecurity in the North Central, noting that no state has been spared 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 Pategi, Lafiagi, and Ifelodun areas of Kwara, as well as ongoing assaults in Benue and Plateau States.

He, however, welcomed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s establishment of the North Central Development Commission (NCDC), describing it as a long-awaited step toward equitable federal intervention in the region.

Commending State Governments’ Efforts

Despite the challenges, the YAN vice chairman commended state governments for notable development initiatives, including:

• Nasarawa State for its infrastructure expansion, solid minerals drive, and youth empowerment programs.
• Benue State for agro-processing and road projects.
• Kogi State for township renewal and youth employment schemes.
• Kwara State for industrialization and peacebuilding efforts despite recent security threats.
• Niger State for Governor Umaru Bago’s agricultural transformation agenda.
• Plateau State for its urban renewal projects, tourism development, and strengthened security through Operation Rainbow.

Youths as Partners in Progress

Amb. Kesuwo stressed that Nigerian youths must be recognized as active leaders rather than passive “leaders of tomorrow.”

“We should be seen as partners in progress. Government must involve youths in decision-making processes and governance,” he said, calling for stronger investment in technical education, entrepreneurship, and agriculture to curb unemployment and restiveness.

Recommendations for Development

The Youth Assembly outlined several recommendations for sustainable growth in the region, including:

• Prioritizing youth empowerment through NCDC-led skills acquisition centers in all 115 LGAs of the region.
• Offering at least 10 postgraduate scholarships per LGA annually for overseas study.
• Establishing state police and a regional army to strengthen security and promote true federalism.
• Supporting local innovation, entrepreneurship, and governance reforms across all states.

Proposals for Plateau State

As the host state, Plateau received special commendation for Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s developmental strides, alongside key recommendations such as:

• Fast-tracking the construction of the new Jos Main Market at Mararaban Jama’a.
• Establishing a truck and trailer terminal to ease road congestion.
• Constructing a new overhead bridge and dual carriageway from British–American Junction through Farin Gada to Bauchi Road.
• Reviving three technical colleges across the senatorial districts.
• Building a 15-storey Trade Center to boost commerce.
• Privatizing selected state assets such as Jos Zaria Road Stadium, Jos International Breweries, and Plateau Hotels to cut governance costs and focus on human capital development.

Conclusion

Amb. Kesuwo concluded by urging leaders across the North Central to demonstrate renewed commitment and integrity in restoring peace and prosperity.

“The quest for development is not a tea party—it requires vigor, vision, and sustained effort,” he declared.
“Long live the North Central Region, and long live Nigeria.”