Junior Chamber Gets 26th President

Junior Chamber International (JCI) Aso on Saturday inaugurated Ambassador Peter Yilbiem Emmanuel as its 26th national president.

The event took place during the organisation’s 2025 convention, investiture and 25th anniversary celebration in Abuja.

On the sidelines of the event over the weekend, Emmanuel told journalists that the organisation would intensify efforts to empower young Nigerians through leadership development.

He said youths across the country were eager for opportunities to improve themselves, adding that JCI Aso would prioritise leadership training, innovation and stronger partnerships in the coming year.

According to him, the organisation plans to work with the public and private sectors, civic groups and other stakeholders, noting that “nothing really happens without partnership.”

“We believe that if you change one individual, refine their thinking and provide opportunities for them to apply themselves, you will see real development in the society,” he said.

Emmanuel said after 25 years of impact in health, education, business and entrepreneurship, Junior Chamber would “continue to innovate fearlessly and collaborate with all sectors to expand youth development.

The outgoing president of JCI, Ambassador Felix Akinyemi, described the event as a defining moment in the history of the group.

He said the organisation, founded by five “brave pioneers”, had grown into a home for leadership growth and a force for positive change.

“Over these years, JCI Aso has evolved into a melting pot of innovation. We have raised leaders, influenced communities and built a legacy that inspires generations,” Akinyemi said.

He praised the members, past leaders and partners for sustaining the organisation’s vision, adding that the next 25 years would require greater creativity and collaboration.

Akinyemi also commended the anniversary planning team for its “sleepless nights and unwavering commitment” to delivering the event.

The 2025 convention director, Mary Alade, said the ceremony marked a “double celebration”: the silver jubilee and the transfer of leadership to Emmanuel.

The chairman of the 25th Anniversary Planning Committee, Senator Abayomi Oladipupo, said Emmanuel was a “fantastic young man” prepared to elevate the organisation.

He expressed confidence that the new president would drive impactful projects and enhance JCI Aso’s visibility in the community.