Youth unemployment fueling crime — Lekki chief imam

Youth unemployment has been identified as a key factor driving banditry and terrorism in Nigeria, according to the Chief Imam of Lekki Central Mosque, Imam Ridwan Jamiu. He called on all levels of government to create more job opportunities for young people. Speaking at the Ramadan Da’Awah Workshop organised by Lekki Muslim Ummah (LEMU) under […]

Youth unemployment has been identified as a key factor driving banditry and terrorism in Nigeria, according to the Chief Imam of Lekki Central Mosque, Imam Ridwan Jamiu.

He called on all levels of government to create more job opportunities for young people.

Speaking at the Ramadan Da’Awah Workshop organised by Lekki Muslim Ummah (LEMU) under the theme “Islam, Youth and Social Development,” Imam Jamiu said youths, aged 18 to 40, are the future of the nation and possess the energy and strength to effect positive change.

He urged that this energy be channelled into productive ventures and nation-building.

“The insecurity we face today would significantly reduce if our youths are engaged in meaningful activities,” he said, noting that those involved in banditry, terrorism, armed robbery, and other criminal acts are predominantly young people.

He also called on parents to take responsibility for proper upbringing and moral guidance.

President of LEMU, Alhaji Abdulganiyu Labinjo, urged Muslim youths to seek knowledge and strive to excel, as encouraged by the Quran.

He also called on them to actively reshape the narrative about Islam to counter global biases against Muslims.

On the importance of guidance, Alhaji Nasir Giwa, Coordinator and Grand Mentor of NGM Platform, emphasised mentorship as an urgent necessity to prepare youths for future challenges.

He noted that many struggles youths face today, particularly in the corporate world, stem from the lack of proper mentoring.

Hajia Sessan Sulaiman, Partner at Templars, explained that challenges faced by young people in the corporate sector are exacerbated by inadequate guidance and mentorship.

The speakers agreed that a combination of government intervention, mentorship, parental responsibility, and faith-based guidance is essential to harnessing youth potential and reducing insecurity in Nigeria.