NYCN cancels IYD 2024 celebration over ‘killing of #EndBadGovernance protesters’

The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) says it has cancelled the 2024 International Youth Day celebrations in honour of slain #EndBadGovernance protesters.

Nigerians held a nationwide protest against economic hardship from August 1-10.

The protest turned violent in some parts of the country, especially in the northern region.

There were also allegations of the use of live rounds by security operatives during the demonstrations.

On August 6, a soldier “accidentally” killed a protester in the Zaria metropolis of Kaduna state.

In a statement on Monday, Sukubo Sara-Igbe Sukubo, NYCN president, said its decision also stems from the economic hardship ravaging millions of families.

“The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) announces the cancellation of this year’s International Youth Day (IYD) celebrations in solidarity with the #EndBadGovernance protesters who recently lost their lives,” the statement reads.

“This decision also reflects our profound concern over the severe economic hardship and widespread hunger currently impacting millions of Nigerians.

“In light of the ongoing economic crisis — marked by rising inflation, high unemployment rates, and growing discontent among the youth — we believe it is necessary to prioritize addressing these pressing issues over celebratory events.

“We have submitted a detailed position paper to the National Security Adviser, Mal. Nuhu Ribadu; the Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim; and the National Assembly.

“This document contains recommendations to alleviate current hardships and strengthen the role of Nigerian youth in national security intelligence.”

The NYCN appealed to President Bola Tinubu to swiftly act on “youth intervention programmes, economic relief measures, transparency and accountability, public transportation, agricultural support, healthcare access, education and skill development”.