Traditional Ruler, Community Leaders Engage Nigerian Refugee Youths in Diffa
By: Zagazola Makama
The traditional ruler of Diffa Canton in Niger Republic on Sunday convened a sensitisation meeting with Nigerian refugee youths residing in Diffa, urging them to shun criminal activities and embrace productive ventures.
The meeting, which was held at the palace of the Sultan of Diffa, brought together youths aged between 18 and 25, community leaders, and local authorities to discuss challenges facing displaced young people in the area.
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Speaking during the gathering, the traditional ruler expressed concern over the involvement of some youths in street violence and other unlawful activities, attributing the trend to unemployment, lack of educational opportunities, displacement from their communities, and the prolonged effects of insecurity in parts of Nigeria.
He urged the youths to desist from acts of violence and idleness and instead pursue legitimate means of livelihood and self-development.
The monarch also encouraged them to become responsible members of society and contribute to peace, stability, and development in Diffa and Niger Republic as a whole.
Community leaders who attended the meeting echoed the call for peaceful coexistence and urged the youths to take advantage of available opportunities to improve their lives.
One of the youth representatives, Sani Dogon Chiku, who participated in the meeting on behalf of Nigerian refugee youths, commended the traditional institution for the initiative and pledged the support of the youths toward promoting peace and good conduct within the community.
Also present at the meeting was Senator Alhaji Muhammadu Bulu, popularly known as Député Boulou, a prominent community leader in Diffa, alongside other notable elders and dignitaries of the canton.
The meeting formed part of ongoing efforts by traditional and community leaders in Diffa to address youth-related challenges and strengthen social cohesion among displaced populations and host communities.