July 15, 2020, NIGERIA—Over fifty people participated in an online webinar addressing the unique challenges and opportunities presented by the global pandemic. Moderator for the call, Country Director of Global Peace Foundation (GPF) Nigeria Rev. John Joseph Hayab, described the pandemic as a “double tragedy.” While COVID-19 has resulted in the loss of lives and livelihood for many households in Nigeria, the country has also suffered at the hands of violent extremists, bandits, and terrorist groups that have especially targeted youth as chief participants.
When the pandemic came to Nigeria, the impact was so great that many political leaders, scientists, and medical practitioners were unable to provide quick solutions. Amid the confusion, volatile communities experienced a series of killings and destruction. Rev. Hayab praised the youth of the country as some of the best in the world, however, many have been victimized as tools in the hands of extremists. “We need to reawaken the youth consciousness to understand the need for peaceful coexistence,” said Rev. Hayab.
Understanding these detrimental circumstances, partners and stakeholders came together in this webinar to discuss projects and strategies that are incorporating the innovation and passion of Nigerian youth as peacebuilding leaders in their communities.
Watch the full webinar below (start at 52:10):