Nasarawa State government has cautioned residents against harbouring criminals in the interest of peace and development.

Isaac Lucky, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, cautioned while addressing the youths at a closing ceremony of a week-long 2022 International Youth Day Celebration on Wednesday in Lafia.

“I want to call on you not to harbour criminals as security is everybody’s business and responsibility.

“On August 13, gunmen killed a coordinator of our youth council of Agidi Development Area, Mr Nasela Auta, it is unfortunate and uncalled for, and we must support the state government efforts to ensure peace across the state,” he said.

Mr Isaac urged the youths to shun political thuggery and other negative acts for peace and development to thrive, just as he commended NYCN for observing their day.

The commissioner also commended Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nassarawa State for creating an enabling environment for the youths to excel.

While declaring the event open, Hannatu Abimiku, Commissioner for Special Duties, Legal Matters and Youth Affairs, urged the youths to be good ambassadors of the state at all times.

Ms Abimiku solicited more support for the state government, adding that the governor had done a lot and is still doing more to change the people’s lives positively.

Earlier, Ja’afar Loko, the NYCN chairman, said the event was organised in commemoration of International Youth Day (IYD).

He said that during the week-long IYD, they paid advocacy visits to orphanage homes and some radio stations to discuss issues of security and youth’s development, among others.

“We have also organised special prayers for the unity, peace, progress and development of the state,” he said.

(NAN)