By Waziri Mahdi Isa
African youth leaders, academics, and diplomats have called for home-grown governance systems, strategic engagement with global powers, and accelerated investment in youth leadership as essential steps toward peace and development in a rapidly changing world order.
The call during an International Virtual Conference organised by the African Union Students’ Club of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, held on Saturday, 18 April 2026. Themed “Global Peace and African Development in a Multipolar World Order,” the conference brought together policymakers, students, and civil society actors from across Africa and beyond.
In a communiqué issued at the end of the deliberations, participants observed that the international system is undergoing a visible transition toward a multipolar order, presenting both opportunities and challenges for Africa. They noted that governance deficits, insecurity, and institutional fragility remain critical barriers to sustainable peace and development.
Participants also acknowledged that Africa’s youth population represents a strategic asset, yet requires greater inclusion in governance and decision-making processes. They stressed that external partnerships must be based on mutual respect, equity, and shared benefit, while strengthened regional cooperation is essential in addressing transnational security threats.
The conference resolved that African states should promote inclusive, home-grown governance systems that reflect the aspirations and realities of their societies, while strengthening democratic institutions, accountability, and the rule of law. Youth participation in governance and leadership, the communiqué said, must be prioritised and institutionalised.
On the continental front, participants called for enhanced regional integration and cooperation to promote peace and economic development. They also urged Africa to adopt a coordinated and strategic approach in engaging global powers, and to accelerate investment in education, innovation, and capacity-building.
Participants further recommended strengthening collaboration among governments, academia, and civil society; promoting fair and transparent diplomatic engagements; supporting peacebuilding initiatives at local, national, and regional levels; and encouraging research-driven policy dialogue on African development.
The conference was hosted by Ahmad Shuaibu Isa, the President of the ABU African Union Students’ Club alongside other Executive Members of the African Union Students’ Club, with Professor Audu Jacob as Guest of Honour. Keynote speakers included Nels Ibson and Honourable Prince Adelaja Adeoye. Senator Shehu Sani was unavoidably absent. A special session originally scheduled for Nuhu Ribadu was ably covered by Honourable Tanko Nura Waziri.
Diplomatic invitations were acknowledged by representatives of the United States, China, Russia, and Iran – including Keith Heffern (US), Ambassador Yu Dunhai (China), Ambassador Alexey Shebarshin (Russia), and Ambassador Gholamreza Mahdavi Rajab (Iran) – though they were unable to participate directly.
The conference drew participants from Kenya, Tanzania, Nigeria, The Gambia, the United Kingdom, and other countries, reaffirming the pan-African and global reach of the dialogue.
The communiqué was adopted by all participants, who expressed a shared commitment to sustained dialogue, cooperation, and the translation of ideas into practical action.