In a defining moment for youth-led democracy and peacebuilding in Nigeria, ReadyToLeadAfrica (RTLA) convened the Presidential Youth-Led Peace Accord under the banner of its initiative, the Youth Against Electoral Violence Accord (YAEVA). Held on February 16, 2023, just days before Nigeria’s general elections, the event marked a bold step forward in placing young people at the center of promoting non-violence, tolerance, and electoral integrity.
The event brought together presidential candidates, youth leaders, civil society actors, and diplomatic observers, creating a powerful platform for shared commitment to peaceful elections and inclusive governance.
About YAEVA
Youth Against Electoral Violence Accord (YAEVA) is a flagship initiative of ReadyToLeadAfrica, designed to mobilize young people, political actors, and institutions toward peaceful electoral processes. YAEVA is driven by the belief that youth are not just beneficiaries of peace but critical agents in sustaining it.
Objectives of the Peace Accord:
-
To secure public commitments from presidential candidates to uphold peace and democratic values
-
To elevate youth leadership in electoral accountability and non-violence
-
To counter electoral violence through civic engagement and stakeholder dialogue
-
To foster a culture of respect, tolerance, and lawful political participation
Event Highlights:
-
Signing Ceremony: Presidential candidates and party representatives officially signed the Accord, pledging to conduct campaigns peacefully and denounce all forms of violence and hate speech
-
Youth-Led Coordination: Young people were at the forefront—planning, moderating, and amplifying the event’s messages nationwide
-
Multisectoral Engagement: The initiative garnered support from INEC, security agencies, peacebuilding organizations, media, and international observers
-
Visibility and Reach: The ceremony was broadcast and reported widely, enhancing public awareness and reinforcing national calls for peaceful elections
Core Commitments in the Accord:
-
Promote peaceful, issue-based campaigns
-
Avoid inciting violence, hate speech, or misinformation
-
Respect the outcomes of the elections and seek legal redress where necessary
-
Champion youth inclusion and protection in electoral processes
The Presidential Youth-Led Peace Accord (YAEVA) demonstrates how youth can lead responsibly, bridging divides and protecting democracy through proactive engagement. ReadyToLeadAfrica remains committed to monitoring the implementation of the Accord and continuing its advocacy for peaceful elections across Nigeria and the continent.