Bangladesh High Commission in Abuja on Wednesday marked the second anniversary of the ‘July Uprising’, honouring martyrs and reaffirming democracy, justice, equality and human dignity.

The event featured prayers, a one-minute silence for the martyrs, documentary screening and readings of messages from Bangladesh’s President Hafiz Ahmad, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, foreign minister Khalilur Rahman, and state minister Shama Islam.

Bangladesh High Commissioner to Nigeria, Miah Md. Mainul Kabir, said the occasion provided an opportunity to remember those who sacrificed their lives during the 2024 uprising.

Mr Kabir said the sacrifices of the martyrs should remain a source of inspiration as Bangladesh pursues justice, democracy, equality, rule of law and national unity.

“The most meaningful way to honour the loyal Bangladeshis is to uphold the ideals for which they sacrificed their lives for justice, democracy, equality, rule of law, human rights, governance and national unity,” he said.

Mr Kabir noted that Bangladesh and Nigeria could deepen their relationship beyond trade and commercial engagements to include culture, youth empowerment and opportunities for both countries to learn from history.

“We will continue our engagement to deepen our relationship, not only in terms of commercial trade, but also in culture and empowerment of youth,” he said.

The envoy expressed appreciation to Nigerian guests for identifying with Bangladesh on the occasion, describing their presence as a reflection of the relationship between both countries.

The guest speaker, Rachael Neboh, deputy director and head of virtual library services at the National Library of Nigeria, described the uprising as a demonstration of youth power.

Ms Neboh, said the experience showed that young people could achieve significant outcomes when united by a clear and purposeful cause.

“The July uprising is the voice of the youth. The voice of the youth is very strong. The voice of the youth is their power,” she said.

She urged Nigerian youths to reflect on how they use their voices, particularly through social media, encouraging them to deploy their influence towards positive causes and national development.

Ms Neboh cautioned young people against spreading unverified information, stressing the need to verify before sharing because of the power of news and social media.

“Please, use your social media handles to post positive things. But check whatever information you want to send. Check it. Verify it,” she said.

She also challenged young Nigerians to take responsibility for their personal development by acquiring relevant skills, updating their knowledge and developing innovative abilities for leadership.

Ms Neboh said young people should recognise their responsibility in building the future and preparing themselves for leadership.

She said the events in Bangladesh demonstrated that a united youth population could transform seemingly difficult situations, urging Nigerian youths to use their collective strength constructively.

(NAN)