….From fitness to peace-building, Command urges youths to embrace education, skills and responsible citizenship
By Abdullahi Inuwa
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has marked the 2026 International Youth Day with a colourful walkathon designed to promote physical fitness, peace, unity and stronger ties between the police and young people across the state.
The event, held on Thursday, August 20, brought together police personnel, youths, community members and other stakeholders in a symbolic exercise aimed at encouraging healthy lifestyles while deepening police-community cooperation.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, described youths as a major driving force for development and positive transformation.
According to him, building a peaceful and prosperous society requires sustained engagement between young people and security agencies, particularly through mentorship, dialogue and constructive partnerships.
CP Azare urged youths to remain law-abiding and resist activities capable of destroying their future or threatening public peace.
He specifically cautioned young people against cultism, drug abuse, violence, cybercrime and other forms of criminality, stressing that such activities could have lasting consequences on individuals, families and the wider society.
Rather than engaging in crime, the Commissioner encouraged youths to pursue education, entrepreneurship, sports, innovation and vocational skills that could equip them for productive and meaningful lives.
He explained that the walkathon was not merely a physical fitness exercise, but also an opportunity to promote peaceful coexistence, healthy living, positive interaction and mutual understanding between the police and the communities they serve.
The Commissioner reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to strengthening youth-friendly policing, community engagement and crime-prevention initiatives, while protecting the rights, safety and future of young people in Akwa Ibom.
He further called on youths across the state to see themselves as ambassadors of peace and responsible citizenship and to support efforts aimed at making their communities safer.
The Command said it would continue to build partnerships with young people, community leaders and other stakeholders as part of its broader efforts to sustain peace, security and development across Akwa Ibom State.
The event ended with a renewed call for collective action, with the police stressing that a healthier, more united and peaceful Akwa Ibom can only be achieved when youths and other members of the community work together.
About The Author
