Kogi Youth Security Summit Holds Thursday, Ribadu to Deliver Keynote

By James Sani

The Kogi State capital, Lokoja, will on Thursday, October 8, host a major Youth Security Summit expected to bring together government officials, security stakeholders, traditional rulers, youths and other critical actors to deliberate on peace, security and community development.

The summit is being organised by the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Kogi State Chapter, in collaboration with the Kogi State Ministry of Youth and Sports Development.

According to a statement signed by the Information Officer of the Ministry, James Sani, the summit will take place at the Key Galaxy Event Centre, opposite the Kogi State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Lokoja, beginning at 10:00 a.m.

The event is expected to place youth participation in security and peacebuilding at the centre of discussions, against the backdrop of the growing need for stronger community-based approaches to security and peaceful coexistence.

The Executive Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, is listed as the Chief Host, while former Governor of the state, Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello, is expected to receive a special award during the occasion.

The National Security Adviser to the President, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, is also expected to deliver the keynote address, bringing a national security perspective to the summit.

Other dignitaries expected at the event include the Deputy Governor of Kogi State, Elder Oyibo Joel; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Alhaji Ali Bello; and the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Aridaojo Monday Anyebe, who will serve as host.

The organisers said the summit would provide a platform for stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue on emerging security challenges, peaceful coexistence, youth empowerment and community development.

They urged invited guests, youth leaders, traditional institutions, security stakeholders and members of the public to participate actively in the summit, stressing that the outcome of the deliberations could help strengthen youth involvement in peacebuilding and community security across Kogi State.

The organisers also expressed appreciation to government officials, invited dignitaries, stakeholders and members of the public for their support, while anticipating a successful and impactful summit.