The Nigeria Police Force has unveiled plans for a three-day International Youth Day (IYD) 2026 programme to deepen Police–Youth collaboration and promote responsible citizenship, leadership and innovation among young Nigerians. Scheduled for August 20 to 22, 2026 at the Nigeria Police Resource Centre, Jabi, Abuja, the event will also be replicated across Zonal and State Police Commands nationwide.
With the theme “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations,” the initiative aligns with the UN IYD theme and focuses on preventive policing through youth engagement. Activities lined up include youth leadership dialogues, moderated Police–Youth sessions, panel discussions, innovation and entrepreneurship showcases, a peace and security walkathon, sporting events, and a national tree-planting drive tagged “Plant Peace. Grow Nigeria. Secure the Future.” The Force will also present youth honours and awards, and launch a publication titled _Esteemed Youths: A National Youth Reorientation Resource_ on August 22.
The programme will kick off two nationwide campaigns: “My Future Is Greater Than Political and Digital Thuggery” to curb political violence and online manipulation of youth, and “Think Before You Click. Verify Before You Share” to promote digital responsibility and tackle misinformation, disinformation and cyberbullying. The Police urged MDAs, development partners, schools, youth organisations, CSOs, faith-based groups and the private sector to support the initiative. Interested participants can register at http://iyd26.silvaweb.com.ng. The Force said equipping youth with values and opportunities remains central to building a peaceful, secure and prosperous Nigeria.
