…says Nigeria is bleeding, at risk of collapse

By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

The President of the National Youth Alliance (NYA), Ambassador Aliyu Bin Abbas, has called on Nigerian youths to rise and take decisive steps toward safeguarding the nation’s democracy, warning that the country is currently at a critical point.

Abbas made the call on Sunday during the NYA seminar themed “Birthing a New Nigeria” and the inauguration of 112 Local Government Coordinators for the North-East Zone, held at the Double Four Event Centre, Bauchi.

According to a statement signed by his SA Media, Okpani Jacob Onjewu Dickson, Ambassador Abbas urged young Nigerians to remain civil, principled, and committed to national service

In his welcome address, Abbas urged youths to remain disciplined, principled and committed to national service, stressing that the responsibility of preserving Nigeria’s democracy rests largely on them.
“It is time for young people to rise, remain disciplined and dedicated to the country, and take responsibility for preserving our democracy,” he said.

He acknowledged the challenges ahead but insisted that Nigerian youths must demonstrate courage and determination in navigating the nation’s future.

“This will not be an easy path, but we must make the effort. The responsibility lies with all of us to commit our time and energy toward building a better Nigeria,” he added.

The NYA President warned that Nigeria is “bleeding, struggling, and in urgent need of rescue,” noting that the evolving political landscape requires young people to step forward and assume leadership roles.

According to him, as older generations gradually exit the political stage, a leadership gap is emerging that must be filled by a new crop of committed and visionary youths.

“We must not forget those who sacrificed their hopes and dreams for Nigeria’s progress. It is now our duty to defend and strengthen our democracy,” Abbas said.

In his remarks, guest speaker, Senator Adamu Ibrahim Gumba, commended the NYA for its patriotic vision and commitment to national transformation.

“Your vision is inspiring. You are determined to transform Nigeria into a nation that commands respect among the comity of nations. This is a noble and commendable pursuit,” he said.

Gumba urged members of the alliance to actively participate in politics, stressing that meaningful change can only be achieved through engagement in the political process.

“You must participate fully in politics. Unite within a political platform where your collective strength can influence leadership and decision-making in Nigeria,” he advised.

He noted that through unity and strategic participation, youths could secure leadership opportunities and contribute significantly to national development, citing countries like Senegal where young leaders have risen to positions of authority.

Also speaking, Bauchi State Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Hajara Yakubu Wanka, who served as Mother of the Day, expressed optimism about the role of youths in repositioning Nigeria.

“With unity and commitment among our youths, Nigeria will undoubtedly be on the right path. I commend your vision and am inspired to align with this movement,” she said.

The event marked a major step in NYA’s efforts to mobilise young Nigerians toward building a more inclusive, progressive and democratic nation.