In a world increasingly shaped by conflict, inequality, and social injustice, young people stand at the forefront of change. In Nigeria—where over 60% of the population is under the age of 25—the role of youth in peacebuilding and social justice is not only vital; it is transformative.
At Back to Base Initiative for Vulnerable People, we believe that empowering youth is one of the most strategic investments in building a just, inclusive, and peaceful society.
Why Youth Matter in Peacebuilding
Youth are often the first affected and the last consulted when conflict arises. They face unemployment, displacement, limited access to education, and targeted violence. But far from being passive victims, young people have consistently demonstrated their capacity to lead change, challenge injustice, and rebuild fractured communities.
Youth bring:
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New ideas and innovations for solving long-standing issues
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Energy and networks that mobilize communities quickly
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Unique perspectives shaped by lived experiences in conflict-affected environments
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Digital fluency to amplify messages and coordinate action at scale
Youth as Drivers of Social Justice
Social justice requires not just policies, but people-driven movements that push for fairness, equity, and accountability. Across Nigeria, we have seen youth-led campaigns address issues such as police brutality, gender inequality, electoral reform, and access to education.
Youth-led advocacy contributes by:
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Challenging discriminatory norms and cultural practices
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Promoting civic education and rights awareness
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Holding institutions accountable through peaceful protest and digital activism
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Building solidarity across regions, religions, and ethnic lines
These efforts aren’t just reactive—they’re strategic, sustained, and centered around the vision of a better Nigeria for all.
From Exclusion to Empowerment
Unfortunately, many young people remain excluded from decision-making spaces, especially those from marginalized backgrounds such as displaced persons, persons with disabilities, and survivors of violence.
That’s why Back to Base Initiative works to:
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Train youth as peace ambassadors and community advocates
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Facilitate healing dialogues in conflict-affected areas
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Support skills development and economic empowerment
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Create safe spaces for meaningful youth participation in governance and local leadership
By equipping young people with the tools and platforms to lead, we are not just preparing them for the future—we are enabling them to shape the present.
Building the Future, Together
The journey toward peace and justice is not a linear process. It requires resilience, collaboration, and intergenerational support. But one thing is clear: Nigeria’s youth are not the problem—they are the solution.
In Summary
Youth play a critical role in bridging divides, challenging injustice, and imagining a future built on dignity, equity, and peace. Supporting them means investing in long-term stability and inclusive development.
At Back to Base Initiative for Vulnerable People, we are proud to stand alongside Nigeria’s youth, equipping them to lead, heal, and build.
What does peace mean to you, and how can young people help achieve it in your community?
Please share your thoughts and join the conversation.