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Youth Development: Centre Advocates Constant Dialogue on Gender-inclusion
Youth Development: Centre Advocates Constant Dialogue on Gender-inclusion
By: Michael Mike
The Policy Innovation Centre (PIC) of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), has called for constant stakeholder dialogue on gender inclusion to advance youth development in the country.
The Chairman of PIC, Mr Udene Ufot, made this call at a two-day Gender and Inclusion Summit in Abuja.
The event with the theme: “Building Bridges: Advancing Gender and Inclusion Through the Intersection of Trade and Health.”
Ufot said the summit was conceptualised as a platform for dialogue where critical stakeholders from diverse sectors would reflect on new evidence and contextually relevant solutions to disparities in inclusivity, in Nigeria.”
He noted that: “This year, we are dedicating considerable time to discuss issues relating to Nigerian youth for many reasons,” adding that: “Nigeria has one of the largest populations of youth in the world, about seventy per cent of the population is under 35 years old.”
He said: “The median age of youth in Nigeria is 18.1 years and 42 per cent are under the age of 15. The size and youthfulness of the Nigerian population offer great potential for innovation, technological advancement and economic development.
“For this potential to be harnessed, strategic investments in health, education, infrastructural development and job creation are critical while leveraging technology to deliver sustainable development at scale.
“We have a collective responsibility to develop inclusive approaches to address barriers to quality education, job and internship opportunities and access to health services for Nigeria’s burgeoning youth population.”
Also speaking at the event, Annett Gunter, German Ambassador to Nigeria, advised on the need for proper commitments to ensure sustainable growth.
She said: “Our commitment extends beyond discussions, it is a call to action for comprehensive gender-sensitive healthcare that recognised and addresses the unique needs of every individual.
“Similarly, the creative and media industries are powerful channels of narrative and both have immense potential to seal conversations towards inclusivity.”
On her part, Dr Charity Chenge, Senior Programme Officer, Global Development, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, underscored the need to prioritise moves for women to guarantee women healthy and reproductive lives.
She said: “We need to really focus on expanding opportunities for women to live healthy and reproductive lives.
“The Foundation works in partnerships and to improve health and productivity. We want to increase women’s economic opportunities by removing barriers, enabling decent work and supporting women’s enterprises to help them thrive in the economy.”
Meanwhile, Mrs Ibukun Awosika, Convener, of the International Woman Leadership Conference, expressed appreciation to the Centre for the event, saying it promoted dialogue on gender inclusion and youth development as critical national conversation.
Awosika said: “This is not just a matter of women, it is a national economic issue. 50 per cent of our population is incapacitated.
“For not being educated properly and in the absence of adequate empowerment as well as lacking opportunities we put ourselves at a disadvantage.”
The high points of the event were the exhibition tour, research presentation, plenary and presentation of prizes.
Youth Development: Centre Advocates Constant Dialogue on Gender-inclusion
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
By: Michael Mike
As Christians begin Lent and Muslims commence Ramadan, the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has urged Nigerians to use the rare overlap of the two sacred seasons to strengthen unity and reject divisive tendencies.
In a statement released on February 18, 2026, the institute described the simultaneous observance as more than a calendar coincidence, calling it a powerful symbol of shared values and collective responsibility in a nation grappling with insecurity and social strain.
IPCR said both seasons—marked by fasting, prayer and reflection—offer an opportunity for citizens to look beyond religious differences and recommit to peaceful coexistence. It stressed that the moral lessons of compassion, self-restraint and generosity embedded in Lent and Ramadan should translate into everyday interactions among Nigerians.
The institute warned against extremist narratives that distort religious teachings for narrow interests, noting that such interpretations undermine national stability. Instead, it encouraged faith leaders and communities to amplify messages that promote tolerance, dialogue and mutual respect.
According to the institute, true spirituality is measured not only by acts of worship but also by how individuals treat neighbours of different beliefs. It added that Nigeria’s diversity should be seen as a strength capable of fostering resilience rather than division.
“With both faiths engaged in solemn reflection at the same time, Nigerians are presented with a timely reminder that we share a common humanity and destiny,” the statement noted, urging citizens to work together toward a more peaceful and prosperous society.
The Director-General of IPCR, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, who signed the statement, extended goodwill wishes to Christians and Muslims, expressing hope that the sacred period would inspire reconciliation, understanding and renewed commitment to national unity.
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
An operative attached to a security unit in Niger State has died following an accidental discharge of a rifle at his duty post in Shiroro Local Government Area.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 10:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the operative, identified as Abubakar Iliya, 35, who was attached to a special hunters unit stationed at Galadiman-Kogo, reportedly fell from a sentry post.
During the fall, his cocked rifle disengaged and discharged, striking him in the abdomen and causing fatal injuries.
His remains were later evacuated by his unit for burial in accordance with customary rites.
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
A canoe conveying seven passengers capsized while in transit between Jata and Kami Village in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, leaving several persons missing.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 7:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the canoe, carrying six females and one male passenger, overturned during the journey.
The passengers were identified as Mustapher Yakubu; Sahura Yakubu and her child; Zarifa Yakubu; Mommy Yakubu; Lizatu Yakubu; Zaratu Yusuf; and Sumaiya Ibrahim, all from Jata/Bmagara via Kami Village.
Rescue teams, including police and local divers, were immediately mobilised to the scene. The boat driver and his conductor were rescued alive, while search efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining passengers.
Authorities said further updates would be provided as rescue operations continue.
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
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IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
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