Youth Group Launches Digital Hub to Counter Violent Extremism
The Youth Against Violence Extremism (YAVE) has unveiled a new digital platform and national contest as part of efforts to tackle violent extremism and promote peacebuilding among young people in Nigeria.
The launch took place on Tuesday in Abuja at a press conference themed, “Empowering Youth Voices, Building Resilient Communities.”
The initiative, according to YAVE, is aimed at creating a dedicated space for young Nigerians to exchange ideas, co-create solutions, and drive grassroots and national campaigns that counter extremist ideologies.
Mohammed Sadiq Mustapha, interim National Coordinator of YAVE, said the platform goes beyond a project to become a youth-led movement against violent extremism.
“The YAVE platform is not just a project, it is a movement that empowers Nigerian youth to reclaim their narratives, challenge extremist ideologies, and lead the charge for peace through creativity, innovation, and digital engagement,” he said.
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One of the highlights of the event was the inauguration of a “National Digital Contest” designed to harness creativity in promoting peace and resilience.
The competition is open to Nigerian youth who can submit entries in short films, photography, poetry, essays, and graphic designs.
Mustapha explained that winners will receive cash prizes, recognition, mentorship opportunities, and platforms to further amplify their peacebuilding efforts.
Speaking on the group’s “youth-first strategy” in peacebuilding, the YAVE coordinator said the approach prioritises young people as leaders in preventing violent extremism, recognising them as “visionaries and solution-bearers with the capacity to drive meaningful change through advocacy, creativity, and civic action.”
He added that YAVE will continue to collaborate with government agencies, civil society organisations, development partners, and the media to broaden its reach and amplify the voices of youth peacebuilders nationwide.
YAVE is an initiative of the Partnership Against Violent Extremism (PAVE) Network – PCVE-KIRH, supported by the Global Community Engagement and Resilience Fund (GCERF) and ActionAid Nigeria.
