The Amalgamation of Regional Youth Organisations of Nigeria (ARYON) has called on Nigerians to reject divisive narratives and actively participate in activities aimed at advancing the country’s democracy.

The National President of the group, Ibrahim Ibrahim, made the call at a news conference in Abuja on Thursday.

He advised Nigerians, especially the youth, on the need for constructive engagement with politicians and government ahead of 2027 general elections.

He said that as a concerned youth group, the association observed with concern coordinated attempts by certain individuals and groups to sow seeds of division, spread discontent and foster distrust amongst Nigerians.

Mr Ibrahim explained that such actions, which had often cost lives and undermined the wellbeing of the citizens in the past, posed a grave threat to national cohesion and adversely affected the ongoing efforts to reposition Nigeria for sustainable growth.

According to him, while constructive criticism remains an essential part of democracy, deliberate attempts to destabilise the country, discourage citizens and sabotage national progress cannot be accepted by patriotic Nigerians.

He stated, “ARYON, therefore, encourages youths across the country to embrace initiatives that promote dialogue, innovation, entrepreneurship, leadership and productive citizenship. We call on all Nigerian youths to reject divisive narratives, embrace national unity, support constructive engagement and participate actively in activities that advance development and strengthen our democracy together to build the Nigeria of our dreams.

“Nigeria will not be divided. Nigeria will not be sabotaged. Nigeria will rise. Nigeria belongs to all of us. Its future cannot be sacrificed on the altar of personal ambitions, political interests or sectional sentiments. Today, more than ever before, Nigerian youths must rise above ethnic, religious, regional and political differences to embrace a common vision of a united, prosperous and progressive nation.

“We cannot fold our arms and watch enemies of national development sow seeds of division among our people. We must stand together as one people and one nation committed to building a stronger Nigeria.”

Mr Ibrahim said that the group carefully assessed the trajectory of governance over the last three years and passed a vote of confidence on the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

He said, though the reforms undertaken by the administration required sacrifices from Nigerians, the decisions were necessary to correct long-standing structural distortions that hindered national development.

He stated, “We, therefore, urge Nigerians to remain patient, resilient and supportive as the nation continues on the path of reforms and recovery.

“We equally urge security agencies to intensify efforts toward apprehending and prosecuting all those committing violent acts against innocent Nigerians.”

(NAN)