The Youth Society for the Prevention of Infectious Diseases and Social Vices (YOSPIS) has called on governments, civil society and communities to scale up investment in young people and women as part of efforts to curb insecurity and build inclusive societies.
In a statement marking the International Day of Peace 2025, the group’s Executive Director, Zainab Nasir Ahmad, said peace could only be sustained through deliberate efforts to address poverty, intolerance and social exclusion.
“Peace is the presence of justice, equal opportunity, and respect for human dignity,” Ahmad said. “At YOSPIS, we see young people not as problems to be solved but as solutions waiting to be empowered.”
The United Nations established the annual day to strengthen the ideals of peace within and among all nations and peoples. This year’s theme, “Act now for a peaceful world”, underscores the urgency of tackling the root causes of conflict, including unemployment, drug abuse and inequality.
Based in Kano, northern Nigeria, YOSPIS has mobilised thousands of youth through mentorship, advocacy, and its Hasken Matasa radio programme, which reaches over 10,000 young people weekly with peace education and civic engagement messages.
The organisation has also worked with security agencies, civil society, and religious leaders to foster dialogue and tolerance.
Ahmad said sustainable peace depended on preventive measures rather than reactive interventions. “Our commitment is to continue creating platforms where youth can channel their energy into leadership, innovation, and social good. We call on government, civil society, and citizens to work together in addressing insecurity, poverty, and intolerance, which threaten our collective peace,” she said.
The group also stressed the need to prioritize women and girls in peacebuilding, arguing that their inclusion in leadership, conflict resolution and decision-making strengthens communities and ensures sustainability.
YOSPIS urged the Kano State Government to expand access to education, vocational training and digital skills, integrate peace education into school curricula, and boost funding for youth start-ups and innovation hubs.
“It is equally important to strengthen youth empowerment and entrepreneurship initiatives by increasing funding for start-ups, small businesses, and innovation hubs that give young people alternatives to crime, drugs, and violence,” the statement said.