The Association of Corporate Editors (ACOE) has urged Nigerian youths to reject violence and political thuggery while taking an active part in the 2027 general elections.
The association made the call in a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja by its Chairman, Sola Akingboye, to commemorate the 2026 International Youth Day.
Akingboye celebrated Nigerian youths for their resilience, energy and creativity, describing them as critical drivers of the country’s social, economic and political development.
He urged them to remain focused, embrace innovation and contribute meaningfully to national progress.
He also appealed to older Nigerians and other stakeholders to create more opportunities for young people to display their talents and play a greater role in shaping the nation’s future.
According to him, Nigerian youths possess the capacity to drive positive change, but require the support, encouragement and guidance of the older generation to realise their full potential.
Akingboye, however, cautioned young Nigerians against allowing themselves to be used for violence, political thuggery or other destructive activities capable of derailing their ambitions.
He warned that involvement in such acts could damage their futures and deprive the nation of the benefits of their talents and potential.
The ACOE chairman further called on youths to take a keen interest in governance and democratic processes, urging them to participate massively in the 2027 elections and fulfil their civic responsibilities.
He said active youth participation was essential to ensuring that their interests, aspirations and concerns were adequately represented in national decision-making.
Akingboye commended the National Youth Council of Nigeria and the Ministry of Youth Development for their efforts to make Nigerian youths more resourceful and productive.
He said the contributions of both institutions to youth development deserved sustained support and recognition.
International Youth Day is observed annually to draw attention to issues affecting young people and celebrate their contributions to society.
Akingboye urged Nigerian youths to use the occasion to renew their commitment to peace, responsible citizenship, innovation and national development, assuring them of continued support from stakeholders across the country.
