Youths Take the Lead: Over 1,000 Students to Convene in Maiduguri for High-Level Peacebuilding Summit

By Our Reporter

Maiduguri, Borno State — In a bold step towards ending violent extremism and fostering sustainable peace in Northeast Nigeria, the Kalthum Foundation for Peace (KFP), in collaboration with the Network of Civil Society Organisations Borno State (NECSOB) and the Borno Youth Parliament, will host a groundbreaking one-day multi-sectoral engagement focused on countering violent extremism, terrorism, and promoting peace.

The event, which will hold on June 28, 2025, at the prestigious Indimi Hall, University of Maiduguri, is expected to bring together more than 1,000 students and youths from Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe States. It is strategically designed to empower the younger generation with practical tools for community engagement, conflict resolution, and peacebuilding — key elements of the Counter-Insurgency (COIN) strategy.

Themed “Countering Violent Extremism, Terrorism, and Peacebuilding: A Youth-Driven Multi-Sectoral Dialogue,” the summit will serve as a melting pot of ideas, collaboration, and inclusive engagement between young people, security agencies, traditional rulers, academia, and civil society leaders.

High-profile dignitaries are expected to grace the occasion, including the Executive Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, who will serve as the Special Guest of Honour. Also expected is the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, as Distinguished Guest of Honour. Their presence highlights the strategic importance of youth inclusion in peace and security efforts.

Other notable guests include the Shehu of Borno, HRH Dr. Abubakar ibn Garbai el-Kanemi; Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abdulkarim Lawan; Theatre Commander, Operation Hadin Kai, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar; GOC 7 Division, Brigadier General Ugochukwu Unachukwu; National Coordinator for Counterterrorism, ONSA, Major General AG Laka; and Professor Ibrahim Umara of the University of Maiduguri.

According to the Founder/CEO of KFP, Ambassador Ummu Kalthum Muhammad Rabiu, “This summit is not just a meeting; it’s a movement. It’s about shifting the narrative and ensuring that our youths are seen as active agents of peace, not as passive victims of conflict.”

The Executive Director of NECSOB, Comrade Bulama Abiso, emphasized the role of civil society in bridging gaps and sustaining peace at the grassroots. “Through platforms like this, we can create long-lasting impacts that resonate beyond just dialogue — we build understanding, networks, and community resilience.”

Echoing similar sentiments, the Speaker of the Borno Youth Parliament, Rt. Hon. Abubakar Usman, stated, “This is our moment. Our generation must rise to lead the charge for peace. No one understands our struggles like we do.”

With its blend of experienced policymakers, traditional authorities, and passionate youths, the summit is set to be a landmark event in shaping a new narrative of peace and resilience across the Northeast region.

BuildingPeaceTogether #YouthsForPeace #SayNoToExtremism

Youths Take the Lead: Over 1,000 Students to Convene in Maiduguri for High-Level Peacebuilding Summit