The Dialogue régional intergénérationnel, social et inclusif commenced on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, in Tillabéri, focusing on the theme 'Jeunesse de Tillabéri : agir pour la restauration de la sécurité, de la paix et le développement inclusif'. This three-day event aims to foster discussion on peace and inclusive development. The dialogue is scheduled to last for three days, providing ample time for participants to delve into critical issues facing the region.
The opening ceremony saw the participation of Colonel Maïna Boukar, Governor of the Tillabéri region. M. Abdoul Rachid Abdoul Baki Ilio, Secretary General of the Ministry of Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture, attended, representing the Minister. Other attendees included regional Secretaries General, prefects, delegated administrators, traditional and religious leaders, regional technical service heads, diaspora representatives, and social, economic, and community actors. The presence of such a diverse group showed the broad commitment to addressing the region's challenges through collaborative dialogue. M. Abdoul Rachid Abdoul Baki Ilio stated, "Un jeune qui écoute un sage s’assure un bouclier pour l’avenir ; un sage qui écoute un jeune s’assure un prolongement pour son œuvre." This proverb noted the intergenerational exchange that is central to the dialogue's mission.
Dialogue's Purpose and Scope
Participants will engage in discussions covering security, peace, social cohesion, education, health, economy, youth employment, and inclusive development over the three-day event. These extensive themes reflect the multifaceted challenges and opportunities within the Tillabéri region. The discussions are designed to be full, ensuring that all critical aspects of regional stability and growth are thoroughly examined. M. Ousseini Daoudou, President of the Regional Council of Youth of Tillabéri, stated that the dialogue represents the culmination of several preparatory meetings, indicating a well-planned and collaborative effort. "Nous ne sommes pas réunis ici simplement pour parler de Tillabéri. Nous sommes réunis pour parler de son présent, mais surtout pour décider de la part que nous voulons prendre dans son avenir," Daoudou said, emphasizing the forward-looking and proactive nature of the gathering.
M. Daoudou noted Tillabéri's strategic geographical location within the Liptako-Gourma region and the three-border zone, noting its particular importance for security and the stability of the Sahelian space. This geographical context makes the dialogue's outcomes particularly key for regional peace. He advocated for a global approach to security that integrates economic, social, educational, health, and food dimensions, stressing that security cannot be achieved in isolation from these vital sectors. Daoudou emphasized the collaborative nature of the initiative, stating, "Nous ne sommes pas des générations concurrentes. Nous sommes des générations complémentaires." This statement showed the spirit of unity and mutual respect between different age groups participating in the discussions. He added, "Nous ne prétendons pas avoir toutes les réponses. Mais nous sommes convaincus que Tillabéri possède en elle-même une partie des réponses à ses propres difficultés." This sentiment conveyed a belief in the local capacity to find solutions and noted the importance of indigenous knowledge and community involvement.
M. Daoudou concluded by expressing the aspiration that the dialogue would result in concrete proposals, commitments, and actions. "Nous voulons que ce dialogue ne soit pas seulement un moment de parole, mais un moment de responsabilité. Que nos discussions produisent des propositions, que nos propositions produisent des engagements et que nos engagements se transforment en actions," he affirmed. This call for tangible outcomes showed the seriousness with which the youth council views the dialogue, aiming for practical steps towards peace and development.
Calls for Peace and Unity
Colonel Maïna Boukar, Governor of the Tillabéri region, emphasized that peace is forged not only in military barracks but also within the fabric of society, including families, villages, neighborhoods, schools, markets, and places of worship. This holistic view of peacebuilding notes the role of every community member and institution. Governor Boukar further called for the reinforcement of trust, solidarity, tolerance, and dialogue among communities, stating that social cohesion must serve as "our common rampart." He stressed the importance of these foundational elements for a resilient society capable of overcoming challenges. The Governor urged the youth to become active participants in peacebuilding, development, and the defense of social cohesion, advocating for them to reject manipulation, violence, hate speech, and misinformation. His message showed the critical role of young people in shaping a positive future for their region.
The Secretary General of the Ministry of Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture noted the dangers of instrumentalizing and dividing young people in the current environment. This warning emphasized the vulnerability of youth to negative influences and the importance of guiding them towards constructive engagement. M. Ousseini Daoudou, President of the Regional Council of Youth of Tillabéri, articulated a similar sentiment regarding generational collaboration. Daoudou stated, "We are not competing generations. We are complementary generations," reinforcing the idea that wisdom from elders combined with the energy of youth can drive progress. Governor Boukar expressed his pleasure and sense of responsibility in presiding over the opening ceremony, remarking, "C’est avec un réel plaisir et un profond sentiment de responsabilité que je préside, ce jour, la cérémonie d’ouverture de ce dialogue intergénérationnel, social et inclusif." His words conveyed the significance of the event and the commitment of regional leadership to its success.
Broader Context and Expectations
Speakers at the opening ceremony included the delegated administrator of the urban commune of Tillabéri, who provided insights into local governance and community needs. The police commissioner, Amadou Ousseini Oumarou, also addressed the gathering, likely speaking on security challenges and the role of law enforcement in maintaining peace. Further contributions came from Honorable Mohamed Meha, representing the Association of Traditional Chiefs of Tillabéri, whose presence noted the key role of traditional institutions in social cohesion and conflict resolution. M. Ahmed Mahmoud, the representative of the High Authority for Peace Consolidation (HACP), also delivered remarks, bringing a national perspective on peacebuilding efforts and strategies. The diverse range of speakers showed the multi-sectoral and multi-stakeholder approach adopted for the dialogue.
The dialogue's focus on Tillabéri is particularly pertinent given its location in the Liptako-Gourma region, an area frequently impacted by security challenges and cross-border issues. The three-border zone, where Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso converge, is known for its complex dynamics, making local initiatives for peace and development all the more vital. By bringing together various generations and sectors, the Dialogue régional intergénérationnel, social et inclusif seeks to harness collective wisdom and energy. The organizers anticipate that the discussions will not only identify key problems but also generate innovative, locally-tailored solutions. The emphasis on youth engagement is key, as young people represent a significant demographic in the region and their active participation is essential for sustainable peace and development. The commitment to producing concrete proposals, commitments, and actions signifies a determination to move beyond mere discussion towards tangible improvements in the lives of Tillabéri's residents. The success of this three-day event is expected to lay a foundation for enhanced security, improved social cohesion, and sustained inclusive development across the region.