The Global Association of Christians and Muslims Youth for Peace and Development, has raised fresh concerns over Nigeria’s rising insecurity, warning that the country cannot achieve meaningful development while citizens live in fear.
In a press statement issued on November 20, 2025, in Abuja, the National President of the association, Prince Peter Asuquo Bassey
expresses worry that the growing wave of kidnappings, banditry, violent extremism, communal clashes and mob attacks is threatening national stability and undermining economic progress.
According to the statement, no nation can prosper when schools, farms, businesses, transport systems and everyday life are disrupted by violence.
It emphasises that citizens’ safety, regardless of tribe, religion or political affiliation, must remain the top priority of government at all levels.
Prince Bassey described the current climate in many communities as one of heightened instability, marked by fear, mistrust and displacement caused by repeated attacks and abductions. He urged urgent and coordinated action to prevent the situation from deteriorating further.
Calling for responsible leadership and national unity, Prince Bassey appealed to the Federal Government to strengthen intelligence coordination, speed up security reforms and improve communication with the public.
“State governments are encouraged to invest in community-based security systems, while local governments are urged to rebuild trust with residents and enhance early-warning mechanisms,” he said.
The association also highlighted the critical role of religious and traditional leaders, urging them to use their influence to reduce tensions, counter dangerous narratives and promote peaceful coexistence.
It advised political actors to avoid inflammatory rhetoric and prioritise national stability over partisan interests.
Stressing the importance of peacebuilding and interfaith collaboration, the organisation called for sustained peace advocacy campaigns, youth-focused empowerment programmes, deradicalization initiatives, and the revival of civic and moral education across institutions.
Addressing Nigerian youths directly, the association urged them to reject extremism, crime and hate, reminding them that while they suffer most from insecurity, they also hold the greatest potential to rebuild the nation.
Reaffirming its commitment to national healing, the group said it was prepared to partner with governments, security agencies, civil society and development partners to promote interfaith dialogue, train peace ambassadors and strengthen community engagement.
The statement further calls for collective action, unity and prayer, expressing hope that peace and justice would soon return to communities across the country.
