THE ROLE OF YOUTH POPULATION IN PEACEBUILDING FOR NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA

Heman Johnson ¹, Tolulope O. Bolorunduro ² & Maryam Isa Gidado ³

Department of Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution, National Open University of Nigeria ^{1, 2 & 3}

Corresponding Email: hjohnson@noun.edu.ng ¹

Abstract

This article examines  the role of  youth population in peacebuilding for national development in Nigeria. With over 65 million young people aged 10–30, Nigeria possesses one of the largest youth populations globally. Such a presentation has unique opportunity for national transformation. Despite this demographic advantage, ongoing conflicts such as banditry, Boko Haram insurgency, kidnapping, secessionist movements, and farmer-herder clashes continue to undermine national progress. Peacebuilding involves long-term efforts to foster dialogue, heal divisions, and reform institutions to benefit conflict-affected communities. Engaging youth in these processes is essential to rebuilding trust and promoting sustainable development. The article adopts the Positive Youth Development (PYD) theory, developed by Richard M. Lerner in 1990s, which highlights the strengths and active contributions of youth, viewing them as resources rather than problems. A desk research method was employed, drawing data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the National Population Commission (NPC), United Nations reports, UNDP publications, academic journals, and credible online sources. Findings reveal that Nigeria’s youth are not fully harnessed due to limited job opportunities and inadequate access to relevant skills. This hampers their potential in peacebuilding and national development. The article recommended that among others  government and stakeholders should  invest in mentorship, skills development aligned with the fourth industrial revolution, and the creation of platforms that allow young people to showcase their talents and actively contribute to peacebuilding efforts.

Keywords: Youth Population, Peacebuilding, Community Engagement, National Development, Nigeria.