13/08/2026
GYDF Demands Greater Youth Inclusion in Governance, Security
The Global Young Diplomats Forum (GYDF) has called on African governments to increase youth participation in governance, security, economic development and peace-building across the continent.
The African Regional President, GYDF, Amb. Ifeanyi Pius Weifuda made the call at a press conference in Abuja to commemorate the 2026 International Youth Day, with the theme, โDifferent Contexts, Common Aspirations.โ
Nwaefuna said young people should no longer be treated merely as leaders of tomorrow, but should be empowered to participate meaningfully in decision-making and leadership today.
He emphasized the need for the effective implementation of the African Youth Charter, the United Nations World Programme of Action for Youth, the Commonwealth Plan of Action for Youth Development and relevant national youth policies.
Speaking further, Nwaefuna expressed concern over rural-to-urban migration and the increasing โJapaโ syndrome among African youths, attributing the trend to the lack of economic opportunities, quality healthcare, education and decent employment.
He urged governments to create better conditions that would encourage young people to remain and contribute to development within their communities.
Nwaefuna also appealed to young people to reject violence, extremism and criminality, while calling for greater investment in education, dialogue and economic opportunities as tools for peace
