Former Head of State Abdulsalami Abubakar has highlighted the critical role of poverty and unemployment in driving violence and extremism in Nigeria. Speaking at the 2024 International Day of Peace event held at the Abdulsalami Abubakar Institute for Peace and Sustainability Development Studies in Minna, he emphasized that peace is fundamental to the nation’s development.

“Peace is the bedrock of progress for any nation. Without it, development stagnates, opportunities disappear, and society falters,” Abubakar stated, reiterating the importance of maintaining peace for national advancement.

He expressed grave concerns over ongoing challenges such as insurgency, terrorism, ethno-religious conflicts, youth unemployment, and economic instability that threaten Nigeria’s peace. Abubakar pointed out that “poverty and unemployment are fertile grounds for violence and extremism” and called for policies aimed at fostering inclusive growth, job creation, and fair resource distribution to effectively address these issues.

The former leader urged collaboration among the government, community leaders, and citizens to foster peace, asserting that it is a collective responsibility. He stressed the necessity of investing in the youth by providing education and opportunities to divert them from violent paths.

Abubakar encouraged educational institutions to teach not only academic skills but also values of tolerance, dialogue, and peaceful conflict resolution. He further advocated for the involvement of marginalized groups, particularly women and youth, in decision-making processes, emphasizing that sustainable development must cater to the needs and aspirations of historically disadvantaged communities.

“We must engage in meaningful discussions on divisive issues, from resource allocation to ethnic tensions,” Abubakar concluded. “A commitment to justice, fairness, and inclusivity is crucial for addressing the long-standing grievances that fuel conflicts in Nigeria.”