Bamenda commemorated the 59th edition of National Youth Day on February 11, 2025, with heightened security measures in place. Chaired by the Governor of the North West Region, Adolphe Lele Lafrique, the celebrations unfolded amidst the backdrop of recent security threats.
In the days leading up to the event, security forces safely detonated at least two explosives reportedly planted by separatist fighters, reinforcing concerns over the region’s fragile security situation.
“When I got around Ngen junction, the whole place had been barricaded. I was terrified when the forces detonated the explosive” said Sandra a University student.
However, the day’s activities proceeded without incident, as authorities implemented tight surveillance across Bamenda.
Commemorative Activities and Calls for Youth Engagement
Despite the tense atmosphere, the event featured a series of activities aimed at recognizing and encouraging young people. Meritorious youths received excellence awards, while various schools and political parties participated in a march-past at the Bamenda Grandstand.
A key highlight was the replay of the Head of State’s speech to the youth, in which President Paul Biya underscored the importance of youth participation in national development. His call for massive voter registration ahead of upcoming elections resonated with many young people present.
“I think the President made an important point. If we don’t register and vote, we won’t have a say in decisions that affect our future,” said Achu, a university student.
Another young participant, Adamu Mohammed, noted that “He encouraged young people to participate in elections. I think this is vital in our society today because its important for us to choose our leaders”, he stated.
Job Creation Beyond the Civil Service
Addressing another critical issue affecting young people, the Deputy Mayor of Bamenda II, Dr. Angwafo Louis, emphasized the need to create jobs outside the traditional civil service sector.
“At the Bamenda II council, we are about to launch a recycling plant which will not create a formal civic service job,” he stated.
He cited that “the head of state’s speech is in line with the action plan of the council, which is going to create thousands of jobs”.
Governor Urges Youth to Seize Opportunities
Addressingthe mediashortlyafter commemorative activities at the Commercial Avenue Grandstand, the North West Governor, Lele Lafrique encouraged the youth to take advantage of the various opportunities available to them.
“They should use the digital space positively to build up long lasting peace, fighting against hatespeech, and they should not be mislead by those who use the digital space against our moral values” he said.
As the celebrations came to a close, the central message remained clear, youths must take an active role in shaping their future through civic engagement and economic initiatives.
