60th Anniversary: NYCN To Honour Tinubu, Past Leaders

In celebration of its 60 years of existence, the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), has said it has concluded plans to confer the Grand Patron of Nigerian Youths award on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

In a statement on Thursday, signed by Amb. Sukubo Sara-Igbe Sukubo NYCN President and Secretary, Board of Trustees, the council said past leaders of NYCN will also be recognized for their outstanding contributions to youth development in a ceremony to be attended virtually and physically by over 200,000 Nigerian youths.

The statement read: “The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), under the dynamic leadership of Amb. Sukubo Sara-Igbe Sukubo, is proud to announce a landmark event celebrating six decades of impactful youth leadership.

“As part of this milestone, the Council will confer its highest honor, the Grand Patron of Nigerian Youths award, on His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Additionally, past leaders of NYCN will be recognized for their outstanding contributions to youth development in a ceremony to be attended virtually and physically by over 200,000 Nigerian youths.

“Since its establishment in 1964, the NYCN has grown to become the foremost umbrella body representing Nigerian youth organizations, with a broad network spanning the entire country. The Council consists of key members, including the National Executive Council, State Chairpersons, and 774 Local Government Coordinators. It also boasts over 100 Member Voluntary Youth Organizations (VYOs), with a collective membership exceeding 40 million individuals. These figures underscore the far-reaching influence and critical role the NYCN plays in shaping the future of Nigerian youth.

“In its 60 years of existence, the NYCN has cemented its position as a registered affiliate and influential member of major international youth bodies, including the World Assembly of Youth (WAY) and the Pan-African Youth Union (PYU). This affiliation has allowed the NYCN to engage in key discussions and activities impacting youth both locally and globally.

“To commemorate its 60th anniversary, NYCN will host a grand event themed “60 Years of NYCN: Reflecting on the Past, Maximizing the Present, and Shaping the Future,” which will take place on December 7, 2024, at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium in Elekahia, Port Harcourt.

“The occasion will be hosted by the Governor of Rivers State, Sim Fubara, and will be overseen by the Honorable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, who will serve as the Special Guest.

“The event will be graced by the Sultan of Sokoto, His Majesty Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, who will co-chair the occasion with His Imperial Majesty, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, the NYCN Royal Father of Nigerian Youths. Additionally, NYCN Matron Dr. Elizabeth Jack-Rich will also be in attendance.

“The occasion will feature a keynote address by renowned Kenyan lawyer and activist, Prof. Patrick Lumumba, who will share insights on the theme of the celebration. The President of the Economic Freedom Fighters in South Africa, Comrade Julius Malema, will also deliver a guest speech on the theme, offering his perspective on youth leadership in Africa.

“Other highlights of the event include a youth empowerment luncheon, cultural exhibitions, and a parade by NYCN uniformed organizations.

*As part of its commitment to empowering Nigerian youths, the NYCN has been at the forefront of several initiatives aimed at fostering youth engagement, participation, and leadership development. Over the years, the Council has facilitated numerous programs, including youth entrepreneurship and skills development workshops, leadership training, and advocacy for policies that promote the welfare and future of Nigerian youth. These efforts have contributed to creating a generation of young Nigerians who are actively participating in nation-building and leadership.

“The NYCN has also played a pivotal role in promoting youth involvement in national governance, encouraging the youth to take an active part in the democratic process. It has advocated for youth inclusion in decision-making processes and worked to create platforms for young people to engage with leaders at all levels. In recognition of these efforts, the NYCN has become a trusted voice in the national discourse on youth and development.

“This grand anniversary celebration will bring together key stakeholders, including state governors, ministers, 36 state commissioners of youth, captains of industry, and youth leaders from across the country. The gathering will serve as an opportunity for reflection, recognition of past achievements, and renewed commitment to shaping the future of Nigerian youth.

“NYCN calls on all Nigerian youths, youth development stakeholders, and all those passionate about the nation’s future to join this momentous occasion. It is a time to reflect on the Council’s achievements, celebrate its growth, and look forward to continued leadership and transformation of Nigerian youth. Let us come together to honor the past, engage in the present, and inspire the future of Nigerian youth.”