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NYCN 60th anniversary: Alausa, Oyetola, NYSC DG task youth on nation building

Published

10 months ago

December 10, 2024

Joel Akayi

The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa and the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola have urged Nigerian youths to focus on nation-building in their endeavors.

They made this call during their speeches at the National Youth Council of Nigeria’s 60th Anniversary Dinner and Award Night on Monday in Port Harcourt.

Alausa, one of the awardees, urged Nigerian youths to always keep in mind that their actions today will impact the future.

The Minister of Education, represented by Rev. Dr. Ijeoma Ogoliegbune, emphasized that Nigeria’s future relies on the youths’ dedication to making positive contributions to society and the nation’s development.

“Nigerian youths are critical stakeholders in national development. You represent the heart of the nation, and your role in shaping the future of Nigeria cannot be overstated. Recognizing the importance of your involvement, the Ministry is investing considerable time and resources in education to empower and equip you with the necessary tools for progress.

“I appeal to you to dedicate yourselves fully to the task of nation-building. Your active participation is essential for creating a prosperous and sustainable future. The future of Nigeria depends on your commitment to contributing positively to society and the country’s growth.

“Do not disappoint us. There is a pressing need for you to engage more deeply in national development. Every action you take today has the potential to shape the Nigeria of tomorrow. Together, we can create a stronger, more vibrant nation, but it starts with your dedication and involvement,” he said.

Also speaking, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, praised the NYCN, noting that the Council’s dedication to youth empowerment over the past six years has been truly inspiring.

Oyetola, represented by Assistant Director of Press and Public Relations, Muhammad Tahir Zakari, urged the youths to renew their commitment to empowering and uplifting Nigerian youth.

“It is a great honor to stand before you today. As we celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Nigerian Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all Nigerian youths for reaching this incredible milestone. This is a momentous occasion, marking six decades of tireless dedication, growth, and impact in the lives of young people across the nation.

“Your commitment to youth empowerment over the past six years has been truly inspiring. The hard work, resilience, and positive energy you have demonstrated towards the development of Nigeria are invaluable. Your contributions have made a significant difference in shaping the direction of our nation, and it is important to acknowledge the incredible efforts that have brought us this far.

“As we reflect on the past 60 years, let us renew our commitment to empowering and uplifting Nigerian youths. The future is in your hands, and with continued unity, focus, and dedication, there is no limit to what you can achieve. Together, we can build a brighter future for Nigeria, one where the potential of every youth is recognized, nurtured, and harnessed for the growth of our great nation.”

On his part, NYCN President, Sukubo Sara-Igbe Sukubo, encouraged Nigerian youths to continue supporting the government at all levels.

Sukubo emphasized that supporting the government is one of the easiest ways for citizens to receive the long-awaited benefits of democracy.

” We have gathered here to celebrate the 60th anniversary of NYCN, but we thought it wise to also celebrate the numerous leaders from across the country who have, in one way or another, contributed to the development and empowerment of Nigerian youths.

“The last 60 years of NYCN have not been without obstacles and challenges, but because of the doggedness and determination of Nigerian youths, we weathered the storm, and today we have so many things to celebrate.

“As we celebrate today, as youth leaders, we must always remember that our nation needs us. The challenges Nigeria is facing require our collective efforts to solve.

“On behalf of NYCN, I commend President Bola Tinubu for the ongoing reforms, and I appeal to Nigerian youths to be patient. I also urge each and every one of us to support the government at all levels, regardless of the political party in power, because once they are elected, they are expected to lead everyone. This is the sure way we can achieve the dividends of democracy,” he said.

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Ogunlesi backs Tinubu reforms as FIRS chairman Adedeji highlights export-led economy

Published

6 hours ago

October 6, 2025

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

After a high-level meeting with President Bola Tinubu in Abuja, Nigerian-born global investor Adebayo Ogunlesi expressed renewed confidence in the country’s economic reforms, indicating potential mega investments across energy, aviation, and port sectors.

He was joined in that optimism by Zacch Adedeji, Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), who stressed that the reforms were laying the groundwork for an export-driven economy.

Speaking to journalists after the closed-door meeting, Ogunlesi praised the sweeping policy changes under Tinubu’s administration, including the removal of subsidies, tax reforms, and the revival of a refinery already exporting aviation fuel.

“We had an excellent meeting where we discussed how to put Nigeria front and center for international investment. The President was very encouraging, and we shared useful suggestions on driving economic growth,” Ogunlesi said.
Although he declined to reveal specific details, Ogunlesi confirmed that his firm is actively investing in Nigeria and assessing new opportunities.

“Watch this space. Nigeria is not yet the most exciting investment destination, but that’s what we are working on,” he teased.

Pressed on the sectors of interest, Ogunlesi highlighted energy, gas, aviation, ports, and renewables. Drawing on his firm’s experience with LNG projects in Texas and Australia, he noted Nigeria’s massive untapped gas reserves.

On aviation, he acknowledged his reputation as “the guy who bought Gatwick Airport” and signaled interest in similar ventures locally.
He also admitted that one of his companies operates ports in Cotonou and Lomé but none in Nigeria, a point Tinubu reportedly challenged him on.

“He forgave me but said, ‘you have to bring port investment to Nigeria,’” Ogunlesi recounted with a smile.

International investor Hakeem Bello-Osagie, who was also present, underscored the importance of diaspora participation in Nigeria’s growth story.
“When Nigerians at home and abroad invest in Nigeria, it sends a strong signal to the world,” he said, lauding Tinubu’s policies for making the country “investable.”

Echoing the sentiment, FIRS chairman Adedeji described the reforms as the foundation for an export-led economy.

“We’ve done the fundamentals, and now it is time to deliver growth,” he said.

With global players signaling confidence, the momentum for Nigeria’s economic repositioning is gaining ground, setting the stage for transformative investments in key industries.

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