The Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom, Mr Baba Azare, has urged youths to shun cultism, drug abuse, and other criminal acts capable of undermining their future and peace of the society.
Azare made the call on Thursday during a ‘’Walkathon’’ organised by the police for residents of Uyo Local Government Area to commemorate the 2026 International Youth Day.
The exercise brought together police officers, youths, stakeholders and members of the community.
‘’Young people should rather embrace education, entrepreneurship, sports, innovation, skills acquisition, and other legitimate opportunities that would enable them to become productive members of society, ‘’ the commissioner said.
He said the exercise was aimed at promoting healthy living, strengthening police-youth relationships, fostering unity, and encouraging young people to channel their energy toward productive and positive endeavours.
‘’The Walkathon is more than a fitness exercise; it is a platform for promoting peace, unity, healthy living, positive interaction, and stronger police-community relations, ‘’ he said.
The commissioner emphasised the critical role of youths in building a peaceful, secure, and prosperous society, describing young people as a vital force for positive change and development.
He stressed the need for continuous engagement, mentorship, and partnership between the police and the younger generation.
He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to youth-friendly policing, community partnership, crime prevention, and the protection of the rights and future of young people in Akwa Ibom.
‘’I urge youths across the state to become ambassadors of peace, responsible citizenship, positive change and to actively support initiatives aimed at creating a safer and more prosperous society.
‘’The command remains committed to building stronger partnerships with young people and other stakeholders in its collective pursuit of sustainable peace, security, and development in Akwa Ibom,’’ Azare said.
Newsmen report that International Youth Day is marked annually on Aug. 12.
The day brings youth issues to the attention of the international community and celebrates the potential of youths as partners in today’s global society.