Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Plateau State Youth Council is seeking commitments from political contestants on youth inclusion, peace and responsive governance through a proposed charter of demands.
The council says the initiative will also draw attention to challenges confronting young people, including the dilapidated state of the Azi Nyako Youth Centre in Jos.
Youths from the 17 Local Government Areas of Plateau State, alongside representatives of civil society organisations, non-governmental organisations and political parties under the Inter-Party Advisory Council, IPAC, gathered in Jos to validate a charter of demands ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The initiative is aimed at ensuring that the concerns and aspirations of young people are reflected in political campaigns and translated into concrete policies after elections.
Chairman of the Plateau State Youth Council, Panan Dapar, says the charter is necessary to address the recurring neglect of young people by political office holders after assuming office.
One of the issues the council intends to bring to the attention of Governorship candidates is the dilapidated state of the Azi Nyako Youth Centre, a facility expected to serve as a hub for youth engagement and development.
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The council plans to engage the candidates at the centre, providing an opportunity to highlight the condition of the facility and press for renewed attention to youth infrastructure and development.
Participants at the validation meeting, including civil society representatives, have welcomed the initiative, expressing hope that the charter will promote accountability and inclusive governance.
They also called for its adoption as a model for youth engagement across the country.
The charter is anchored on five key pillars addressing challenges affecting youths, women and persons with disabilities.
The council hopes that presenting the demands to political contestants will secure clear commitments to youth development, improved public facilities and inclusive governance beyond the 2027 elections.
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(Editor: Anoyoyo Ogiagboviogie)
