Amid growing insecurity across West Africa, Amb. (Dr.) Alan Adeboye, Special Envoy on Youth Affairs of the International Forum for Peace and Diplomacy (IFPD), has stressed that meaningful engagement of young people in politics and governance is central to achieving sustainable peace and stability in the region.

Speaking on the strategic role of youth in national development and security, Adeboye noted that the youth constitute the largest demographic group in West Africa, yet they remain significantly underrepresented in decision-making processes. “Political exclusion of young people has been a major driver of unrest, radicalization, and social instability,” he said. “When youths are included constructively in governance, they contribute innovative ideas, civic responsibility, and inclusive perspectives that strengthen democratic institutions and enhance accountability.”

As Special Envoy, Adeboye has championed initiatives aimed at amplifying youth voices in political, civic, and peacebuilding processes. Through the IFPD, he has supported policy advocacy, capacity-building programmes, and platforms that enable young leaders to actively participate in governance. According to him, youth are not merely beneficiaries of peace but strategic partners in shaping Africa’s security and democratic future.

Adeboye highlighted the link between youth inclusion and regional security. He explained that social and political marginalization often drives frustration among young people, creating fertile ground for extremist ideologies, violent conflicts, and organized crime. Engaging youths in governance, decision-making, and community development, he said, can transform them into agents of change who promote social cohesion and conflict prevention.

“West Africa’s stability depends on empowering our youths,” Adeboye emphasized. “We must create deliberate frameworks for youth participation in governance and ensure that their contributions are valued in shaping policies that affect their lives and communities.”

The IFPD has been at the forefront of advancing youth participation across Africa through programmes that enhance leadership skills, civic awareness, and policy engagement. By mentoring young leaders, facilitating dialogues with government officials, and promoting collaboration between youth networks and regional institutions, the Forum is redefining how young people influence governance, peacebuilding, and development outcomes.

Adeboye also urged governments, civil society organisations, and the private sector to partner in establishing sustainable platforms for youth inclusion, particularly in decision-making processes related to security, governance, and economic development. He argued that without meaningful youth participation, policies risk failing to address the root causes of insecurity, unemployment, and social marginalization.

Concluding his message, Adeboye called on West African youths to remain proactive, disciplined, and solution-oriented. “Youth engagement is not just about representation; it is about responsibility, innovation, and commitment to nation-building,” he said. “When young people lead with purpose and integrity, they can transform societies, foster peace, and contribute to a prosperous Africa.”

With his advocacy, mentorship, and leadership initiatives, Amb. (Dr.) Alan Adeboye continues to position youth as a strategic force for peace, development, and democratic governance across West Africa, urging both governments and communities to invest in their empowerment as a pathway to regional stability.