… Sultan, Ooni, Lumumba, others to grace occasion
As part of activities to commemorate its 60th anniversary, the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) said it will confer its highest honour, the Grand Patron of Nigerian Youths award, on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The council also said its past leaders 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.
This was contained in a statement signed by the president of the group, Amb. Sukubo Sara-Igbe Sukubo, and made available to journalists on Thursday.
He said the group will host a grand event themed: “60 Years of NYCN: Reflecting on the Past, Maximizing the Present, and Shaping the Future,” on December 7, 2024, at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium in Elekahia, Port Harcourt.
He said the occasion will be hosted by the Governor of Rivers state, Sim Fubara, and overseen by the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, who will serve as the Special Guest.
He disclosed that 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.
He added that NYCN Matron Dr. Elizabeth Jack-Rich will also be in attendance.
The NYCN’ president revealed that 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, ” he said.
He said the 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,” he said.
Sukubo noted that 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,” he said.
He called on Nigerian youths, youth development stakeholders, and all those passionate about the nation’s future to join the 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,” he said.
