By Barnabas Augustine
Adamawa State has taken a bold step towards a more harmonious future by placing its youth at the heart of governance.
A high-level dialogue, convened by the government through the office of the Senior Special Assistance to Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri on Social Media, Mr Muhammad Bakari Tukur, brought together young people, academics, and policymakers to chart a course for peace and progress under the topic: "Dialogue for Peace: Youth for Good Governance".
The event, held on Saturday at the Fombina Royal Hotel in the State Capital, Jimeta-Yola, saw a fervent exchange of ideas on how to harness the potential of the state's burgeoning youth population.
Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, represented by Information and Strategy Commissioner, Hon. James Iliya, underscored the administration's unwavering commitment to youth empowerment, describing it as the bedrock of sustainable development.
Renowned communication expert Professor Peter Ogondo delivered a keynote address, painting a vivid picture of the critical role young people play in shaping societies. He warned of the dire consequences of neglecting this demographic, citing historical examples of nations that have suffered turmoil due to youth disengagement.
Professor Ogondo championed the creation of platforms that give young people a voice and urged Adamawa State to emulate countries like Liberia and Australia, where youth councils have proven to be effective in driving change.
The dialogue also featured insightful contributions from Professor Umar Pateh, who highlighted the challenges facing today's youth, such as the overwhelming volume of information and limited opportunities. He stressed the importance of critical thinking and media literacy in navigating the digital age.
The event was a resounding success, with attendees pledging to work collaboratively to create a more inclusive and prosperous Adamawa State. As the curtain fell on the dialogue, there was a palpable sense of optimism and determination among participants, eager to translate the discussions into tangible actions.
The government has committed to implementing the recommendations arising from the dialogue, signalling a new era of youth engagement in governance.