Nigeria Peace Corps Commandant Blames Rising Insecurity on Youth Unemployment and Economic Exclusion
By Ahiaba Douglas
The National Commandant of the Nigeria Peace Corps, Dr. Dickson Akor, has identified youth unemployment and economic exclusion as the primary causes of the rising insecurity across Nigeria.
Dr. Akor made this known during the commemoration of the 27th anniversary of the Nigeria Peace Corps and the celebration of Founder’s Day, held on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at the Exhibition Pavilion, Area 10, Garki, Abuja. The event was themed: “27 Years of Resilience, Patriotic Service, Volunteerism, and Peace-Building: Still Standing, Still Serving Nigeria With Pride.”
Addressing attendees, the Commandant emphasized that the lack of employment opportunities and widespread economic marginalization among the youth remain critical drivers of the worsening security challenges facing the country.
“The alarming level of youth unemployment and exclusion from economic activities is directly linked to the growing insecurity in Nigeria,” Dr. Akor stated. “If not urgently addressed, this trend will continue to fuel criminal activities and social unrest.”
He explained that the Nigeria Peace Corps, with its presence in communities nationwide, could play a pivotal role in intelligence gathering to support sister security agencies in tackling crime before it escalates.
Dr. Akor further expressed deep concern over the increasing idleness among Nigerian youths, which he said makes them vulnerable to criminal recruitment and radicalization. Quoting the popular adage, “An idle mind is the devil’s workshop,” he called for immediate and holistic action.
The Commandant stressed the need for a critical, strategic, inclusive, and multi-sectoral approach to national security—one that prioritizes youth empowerment as a tool for violence prevention and peacebuilding.
He also urged the Federal Government to harness the vast structure of the Nigeria Peace Corps, which spans nearly every community in the country. According to him, the Corps comprises disciplined, well-trained officers—mostly youth—who are ready to serve in various capacities, especially during National emergencies.
