Peace, Unity and Security Take Centre Stage at Nigeria First Unity Summit 2025

Peace, Unity and Security Take Centre Stage at Nigeria First Unity Summit 2025

Abuja, December 11, 2025 — National leaders, youth groups and peace advocates on Thursday converged in Abuja for the Nigeria First Unity Summit 2025, reaffirming a collective commitment to peace, unity and national security. The Summit, themed “Peace, Unity and Security: A Collective Responsibility,” was organised by the City Boy Movement and drew participants from government, civil society, development partners and the youth community.

The gathering emerged as a strong national call to action, aimed at countering divisive narratives, strengthening social cohesion and mobilising citizens toward shared responsibility for stability and nation-building.

Prominent speakers at the Summit included the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Dr. Daniel Bwala; Chairman of the Governing Board of the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), Dr. Musa Babayo; Director-General of the City Boy Movement, Francis Oluwatosin Shoga; and keynote speaker, Mr. Chukwemeka Mbah.

IPCR Calls for Sustained Dialogue

Delivering the welcome address on behalf of the Director-General of the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR), Dr. Emmanuel Mamman, Director of NPA, emphasised the need for sustained dialogue, peace education and proactive conflict prevention. He noted that the Summit aligns with IPCR’s mandate to promote understanding and strengthen Nigeria’s social fabric across its diverse communities.

Bwala Warns Against Divisive Narratives

In one of the highlights of the event, Dr. Daniel Bwala underscored the power of communication in shaping national security. He warned that misinformation and divisive rhetoric have become dangerous tools capable of destabilising nations.

Dr. Bwala reaffirmed the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to transparent communication, national unity and public trust, stressing that Nigeria is not facing a religious or ethnic war but a unified battle against criminal elements seeking to undermine the state. He urged youths to use their influence on digital platforms responsibly, noting that “the story of Nigeria must be told with truth, balance and dignity.”

Unity, Infrastructure and Security Linked

In his address, Dr. Musa Babayo highlighted the strong connection between security, infrastructure development and economic growth. He explained that insecurity not only claims lives but also disrupts transportation, trade and social integration.

According to him, unity is non-negotiable for Nigeria’s survival. “Without peace, development is impossible, and without collective responsibility, peace is unattainable,” he said. Dr. Babayo reaffirmed FERMA’s commitment to maintaining safer federal roads, describing them as critical to security operations, humanitarian access and national cohesion.

City Boy Movement Urges National Ownership of the Narrative

Speaking on “Towards a Safer Tomorrow: Nigeria’s Commitment to Stability,” Francis Oluwatosin Shoga described insecurity as a national challenge affecting all Nigerians, rather than an ethnic or religious conflict.

He cautioned the international community against misinterpreting Nigeria’s security situation and urged citizens to reclaim the national narrative. “This is not North versus South or Christian versus Muslim. It is a national emergency, and we must confront it together,” he said, while commending President Tinubu and security agencies for ongoing efforts to stabilise the country.

Youths Urged to Become Digital Peace Ambassadors

Delivering the keynote address, Mr. Chukwemeka Mbah highlighted the growing influence of youths and social media in shaping public perception and national identity. While acknowledging the power of digital platforms, he warned against their misuse for misinformation and manipulation.

He challenged young Nigerians to become “digital peace ambassadors,” stressing that unity and stability begin with responsible online engagement.

Panel Examines Social Media and Conflict

A panel session titled “Social Media: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly” examined the impact of digital platforms on peace and conflict. Discussions focused on cyberbullying, hate speech, misinformation and the potential of social media to mobilise youths for positive civic action. Panelists agreed that while social media is a powerful tool, it must be used responsibly for nation-building.

The Nigeria First Unity Summit 2025 concluded with a renewed commitment to peace, unity and collective responsibility, as participants echoed a shared message: Nigeria’s stability depends not only on government action, but on the unity, voices and daily choices of its people.