Nigerian youths' exclusion from politics: cause of hopelessness in a renewed hope era - Hammed spits

Nigerian youths' exclusion from politics: has been seen as one of the major causes of hopelessness in a renewed hope era. Not only that, but it is also a cause of unhappiness, violence and radicalism. This was disclosed by Ayobami Hammed, a renowned Professor and counselling psychologist with over 28 years of teaching career in the Nigerian university system.

Prof. Taslim Ayobami Hammed in his inaugural lecture at the 546th inaugural lecture of the premier university, University of Ibadan held on 21st March 2024 at Trenchard hall, did not spare words to unravel the challenges bedeviling the nigerian youths as he talked on an interesting topic "We Die Here Today’’: Youth Violence, Social Dysfunction and a Counselling Psychologist’s Pathway to Peace". 

Ayo Hammed who is a Professor of Counselling Psychology/Peace Studies at the Department of Counselling and Human Development Studies, University of Ibadan disclosed how counselling psychological principles and practices can be used to foster peace among Nigerian youths. In addition, it displays the persistent issues of youth violence, radicalization, secondary school cultism, consequences, and risk factors.

The inaugural lecture was presented in two interrelated parts: counselling psychology, youth aggression, and peace studies and his stewardship as a lecturer of counselling psychology for the last 28 years. 

"Nigerian youths are typically excluded from political administration and held down by unhappiness, hopelessness, unproductivity, or psycho-socio-emotional imbalance, which typically produce exclusionary violence. Adolescent radicalisation, the first step in violence mobilisation, must be addressed. We must characterize radicalization as violence, as it can be violent or passive", Hammed posited.

Hammed further stated that State-sponsored violence and its backgrounds are often overlooked, and framing violence as an abstraction rather than a lived experience does not help. "Youth and state-sponsored violence must be considered to understand its effects on daily life", Hammed added.

In his lecture recommendations, the renowned lecturer stated that ensuring smooth and better access to quality education for all Nigerian youth is crucial. "Education equips the youths with knowledge, critical thinking skills, and opportunities for personal growth. The Nigerian government should focus on youth welfare by upgrading existing institutions and constructing viable ones, such as community training centres", Hammed added. He noted that functional and effective institutions are crucial for preventing violence and promoting human security. 

Meanwhile, the establishment of a National Crime Prevention Commission charged with peace education that can provide national leadership on effective ways to prevent and reduce crime is another strong recommendation posited by the scholar.

Earlier, he noted that high unemployment rates contribute to frustration and violence among young people. He then recommended programmes that can promote self-employment, vocational training, and job creation to empower the youth economically. "In addition, policies to manage population while discouraging population growth could also be implemented", Ayo Hammed submitted.

In Hammed final words, "implementing social welfare packages specifically designed for the youths can provide safety nets. These programmes may include financial assistance, healthcare, and support for vulnerable youth. The economic situation in Nigeria is causing psychologically-absent parents to prioritize their careers over their children, which contradicts the objective of wage increases.  Providing Social Safety Net Mechanisms could help parents financially and enable them to devote more time  to their children".

Present at the remarkable occasion were professors of professors, among whom are Prof. K. O. Adebowale, UI Vice Chancellor, professionals, political stalwarts, religious leaders, students, his family members as well as well wishers.