Values
By Ahmed Kaigama
Bauchi, Jan. 7, 2026 (NAN) Dr Ahmad Umar, a Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and HIV Management Specialist, has called for renewed emphasis on mentorship and parental guidance among young people.
He made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Bauchi.
He said these were critical tools for instilling discipline, moral values and responsible behaviour among young people.
He expressed concern over the gradual erosion of values among youths, fueled by weak family structures; poor role modelling; and negative social influences.
The expert noted that while government policies and institutional frameworks were important, the family and community remained the first-line of influence in shaping the character and mindset of young people.
He stressed that parents, guardians, teachers and community leaders must deliberately make out time to guide youths, helping them to navigate social pressure and make informed decisions.
Umar, who worked extensively on issues related to GBV and HIV prevention, noted that lack of mentorship often expose young people to risky behaviours.
He said “lack of guidance can make young people vulnerable to violence, substance abuse
and health-related challenges.”
He added that proactive guidance could significantly reduce risks and promote healthier lifestyles.
He recalled the role of youth movements in Nigeria’s pre-independence struggle, particularly the contributions of young intellectuals and activists such as Sa’adu Zungur in Bauchi.
He explained that youths of that era were guided by strong values, discipline and a clear sense of purpose, which enabled them to contribute meaningfully to national development.
The expert, therefore, urged youths to learn from past generations by responding thoughtfully to challenges, rather than reacting hastily out of anger or frustration.
According to him, constructive engagement, critical thinking and patience are essential for personal growth and societal progress.
Umar urged stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organisations and religious institutions to collaborate in creating structured mentorship programmes to the younger generation.
He expressed optimism that with sustained mentorship and active parental involvement, Nigerian youths could be repositioned as agents of positive change and development.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng )
MAK/BEN/HA
============
Edited by Benson Ezugwu/Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu