The Nation Newspaper

Tag: NYCN

  • NYCN to youths: embrace patriotism, join governance

    NYCN to youths: embrace patriotism, join governance

    The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has urged Nigerian youths to embrace patriotism, unity, and active participation in governance.

    In a New Year message yesterday in Abuja, NYCN President Sara-Igbe Sukubo said this year presents both challenges and opportunities that require a collective effort from all Nigerians for a fresh start for the nation.

    “This year, the NYCN urges the youth to embrace these values, as they are essential for building a stronger, more united nation.

    Read Also: Lagos NYCN trains youths on skill acquisition

    “This sense of patriotism is not just about supporting the nation in general but also extends to supporting the government at all levels, regardless of political affiliation.

    “Whether at the federal, state, or local levels, the government plays a vital role in shaping policies that affect the lives of millions of Nigerians.

    “The NYCN believes it is crucial for the youth to stand in solidarity with these efforts, not just by offering support but by contributing their ideas, perspectives, and solutions.

    “Constructive engagement with the government is critical for ensuring that policies are effective and responsive to the needs of the people,” the statement said.

  • Nigeria @64: Youth leader felicitates with Tinubu, Ribadu, security chiefs

    Nigeria @64: Youth leader felicitates with Tinubu, Ribadu, security chiefs

    The former President of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) and Chairman of the Northern Youth Elders Forum, Comrade Murtala Muhammad Garba, also known as Gamji, has extended his congratulations to the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, the Minister of Defence, Badaru Abubakar, and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, as well as all service chiefs, on the occasion of the nation’s 64th Independence anniversary.

    Comrade Gamji also commended the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.

    Read Also: Nigeria @64: Our Nation is woven together with resilience, creativity – May Edochie

    He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and his team for their commitment to combating poverty, insecurity, and other societal challenges. 

    He added that stakeholders are aware of the significant role youths play in nation-building and urged the government to intensify efforts to engage them further.

    The youth leader made these remarks during a visit to the office of the APC National Chairman at the party’s national headquarters in Abuja, where he led a delegation of Northern Nigerian youth.

    He emphasized the need to properly engage the youth of this generation and took the opportunity to commemorate Nigeria’s 64th Independence anniversary.

    In his speech, Comrade Gamji assured that Northern youths would continue to contribute their best towards the success of the current administration and its “Renewed Hope” agenda.

    In response, APC National Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje assured the Northern Youth Elders Forum, under the leadership of Comrade Murtala Muhammad Garba, that their concerns would be forwarded to the appropriate authorities.

    The youth delegation also participated in a solidarity march through the streets of Abuja to celebrate Nigeria’s 64th Independence anniversary.

  • Lagos NYCN chief calls for dialogue

    Lagos NYCN chief calls for dialogue

    •Raises committee to meet Conference 57 chairmen

    The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Lagos State Chapter, has called for unity and dialogue among Nigerian youths in the face of economic hardship.

    Chairman of NYCN, Lagos State Chapter, Ibrahim Adigun, an engineer, at a briefing in Ikeja, emphasised the need for constructive dialogue and diplomatic exercise of fundamental human rights to press home demands for desired actions.

    Adigun urged organisers of the Hunger Protest to have a rethink and embrace dialogue.

    The youths’ leader acknowledged the legitimate concerns raised by the agitators and the significance of providing a platform for peaceful and constructive dialogue.

    Adigun strongly advised against protests, citing the negative consequences of the 2020 #EndSARS protests and the current situation in Kenya and Bangladesh.

    Read Also: Lions Clubs DG gets Daniel’s, commissioners’ backing to lift communities

    He said: “Having had a firsthand experience of previous protests especially the better-forgotten 2020 #EndSARS that led to avoidable deaths and loss of properties as well as the current undesirable situation of Kenya and Bangladesh owing to protest, we declare that we are against the protest”.

    Adigun commended the Lagos State Governor for his youth-friendly policies and initiatives, including the appointment of a youth as the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, and the extension of the THEMES agenda to THEMES PLUS Agenda, prioritising social inclusion, gender equality, and youth participation.

    He added that a committee has been set up to engage authorities across the 57 local councils in Lagos to present the demands of the youth for better governance.

    “We are working on data collation of youths in Lagos and ensuring we categorise everyone to know what opportunity and engagement is best appropriate for everyone. We hereby call on youths especially those not affiliated with the youth council to collaborate with us on our quest to champion dialogue with government for mutual benefits,” he said.

  • Lift ban on expatriate employment levy, NYCN urges FG

    Lift ban on expatriate employment levy, NYCN urges FG

    The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has urged President Bola Tinubu-led federal government to lift the ban on suspension of the Expatriate Employment Levy (EEL).

    NYCN stated that implementation of the EEL policy will be of greater benefit to Nigerian workers, particularly the youths.

    Recall that President Tinubu in March launched the EEL as a mandatory fee imposed on employers hiring expatriate staff in Nigeria given the escalating influx of foreign labour into the country, to balance economic expansion, social equity, and workforce enhancement.

    But FG suspended it following a widespread condemnation from private sector groups barely a week after the announcement.

    Speaking in Ibadan at the NYCN chairmen forum media parley on EEL, the NYCN chairman in Oyo state, Com. Abdul-Salam Abdul-Quadri kicked against the ban, saying EEL has the potential to address economic and security challenges facing the nation.

    According to him, funds generated from the Levy would boost youth employment and foster entrepreneurship across the nation.

    He said: “The Forum of the State Chairmen of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), under the leadership of Amb. Comrade Abdul-Salam Abdul-Quadri Olusegun (FEIP) on April 20, 2024, pledged their solidarity to the ongoing efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government to enhance Nigeria’s economy and society.

    Read Also: Ogun youth celebrates NYCN chairman

    “We also commend the dedication of the governors of all 36 states in supporting President Tinubu’s initiatives aimed at uplifting the living standards of Nigerians, particularly the youth.

    “Remember, a month ago, the NYCN President, Amb. Sukubo Sara-Igbe Sukubo, along with other members of the National Executive Council, held a press conference in Abuja to express the Youth Council’s stance on the Expatriate Employment Levy.

    “In solidarity with the national leadership, and recognizing the introduction of the levy by former President Muhammadu Buhari to enhance job prospects for young Nigerians, President Tinubu has continued this effort to keep skilled workers in Nigeria, foster local technology, and ensure fair job opportunities for both Nigerians and foreigners.

    “The NYCN Chairmen Forum wholeheartedly supports the implementation of the Expatriate Employment Levy in Nigeria, viewing it as a significant measure to ensure fair job access across the nation, particularly for Nigerian youth.

    “The EEL aims to regulate the employment of expatriates in Nigeria while encouraging the recruitment and training of local talent, including young Nigerians. By imposing levies on companies that hire expatriates, the EEL seeks to incentivize the hiring and development of Nigerian workers, thereby reducing dependence on foreign labor and fostering indigenous capacity building.

    “The NYCN Chairmen believe that the implementation of the Expatriate Employment Levy will generate more job opportunities for Nigerian youth, mitigating the high unemployment rate among them and enhancing their economic prospects.

    “Moreover, the EEL will contribute to the cultivation of a skilled workforce in Nigeria by promoting the recruitment and training of local workers, enabling young Nigerians to acquire valuable skills and experience, thereby enhancing their competitiveness in the job market and supporting long-term economic growth.

    “NYCN supports the EEL as it endeavours to diminish dependence on expatriates in Nigeria, motivating businesses to invest in the training and development of Nigerian employees. Furthermore, the implementation of the EEL will catalyze the promotion of local talent, enabling young Nigerians to actively contribute their skills and expertise to the nation’s advancement across diverse sectors.

    He further said: “The NYCN Chairmen endorse the EEL as the funds generated from it can be channeled into programs and initiatives dedicated to bolstering youth employment, fostering entrepreneurship, and enhancing skill development, ensuring a positive cycle of empowerment and progress for the Nigerian youth demographic.

    “We urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to promptly lift the temporary hold on the implementation of the Expatriate Employment Levy, underscoring its potential to expeditiously address both economic and security challenges facing the nation.

    “The NYCN Chairmen implore the federal government, relevant ministries, agencies, and other stakeholders to endorse and diligently pursue the successful implementation of the policy for the benefit of millions across the nation.

    “We advocate for collaboration among government agencies, private sector stakeholders, and civil society organizations to ensure the successful execution of the EEL and the achievement of its objectives, thus fostering a more inclusive and prosperous future for Nigerian youth and laying the groundwork for sustainable development and economic growth.”

  • International Youth Day: Council hail resilience of Nigerian youths

    The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), an umbrella body of all youth organisations in Nigeria, has commended the resilience of Nigerian youths on the occasion of International Youth Day (IYD).

    Its National Treasurer, Mr Uko Michael, gave the commendation in a statement made available to our reporter on Monday in Abuja.

    Michael said the Nigeria youths deserved to be commended and celebrated for their selfless services and contributions in all aspect of the economy and nation building.

    According to him, it is an indisputable fact of history that Nigerian youths contributed immensely during the struggles for the attainment of political independence and restoration of democracy.

    He said Nigerian youths were also contributing to the growth of entertainment industry, information technology and in business.

    Michael enjoined Nigerian youths to join their counterparts from across the globe to celebrate the Day by showcasing their talents in their areas of chosen careers.

    “ According to estimated statistics, there are over 85 million youths in Nigeria which ranks the country among those with the largest youth population in Africa and in the world.“

    Michael assured that the new leadership of the council would synergise with all relevant stakeholders to build a country that would be free from religious discrimination, corruption and poverty.

    He thanked the South-South youths for the massive support accorded to him during the recently conducted congress of NYCN held in Gombe State.

    The treasurer assured them that he would use his position to bring the desire programmes and development that would be beneficial to the youth of that region.

    The News Agency of Nigeria  reports that the United Nations has set aside Aug. 12 to commemorate the IYD.

    The theme for the 2018 edition of the celebration is “Safe Spaces for Youth”.

  • NYCN urges Buhari to caution Dalung

    NYCN urges Buhari to caution Dalung

    The Deputy National President of Nigeria Youth Council (NYCN), Abdul-Rahman Agboola, has urged President Muhammadu Buhari to call the Minister of Youths and Sport, Solomon Dalung, to order following his meddling in the council’s leadership crisis.

    Agboola addressed reporters after a three-day meeting at Reel Daniel Hotel, Ogudu, Ojota, Lagos.

    He described Dalung’s inauguration of a 33-man National Transition Committee for NYCN as a sham, illegal, cruel.

    According to him, for Dalung to take sides and work with an illegal faction shows that there is a cynical move to hijack the council for political gains.

    He said the minster’s role was supervisory and the constitution did not allow him, or any of the council’s advisory members, to interfere in running the council.

    He said: “We don’t want to throw tantrums but the management council had agreed on the congress and election date, and we will pursue it to a logical condition.”

    Agboola restated that the present leadership is willing to hand over to an elected president in April.

  • Dalung inaugurates 33-man NYCN committee

    Dalung inaugurates 33-man NYCN committee

    The Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Mr Solomon Dalung, has inaugurated a 33-man National Transition Committee of the National Youth Council of Nigeria ( NYCN ).

    Dalung, who inauguratwd the committee in Abuja, said the committee should come up with modalities and action plan that would target the realisation of a successful elective congress within six months.

    Dalung charged the committee to find lasting solutions to the crisis bedevilling the council, urging them to use the opportunity to harvest new executives with wealth of experience.

    “You will agree with me that the NYCN leadership crisis was an ill wind that blows nobody any good. We are all losers and victims of the Council’s power tussle.

    “The Nigerian youths has lost so much as crisis deprived them of quality representation nationally and internationally.”

    Read also: How Sports Minister Dalung spurred Eagles to victory

    The Minister noted that committee members would be culminated in an elective congress which would usher in a new leadership for the Youth Council, adding that the committee was a true reflection of interest groups , zones and was gender sensitive.

    The Minister, however, warned all the members of the council against cresting the NYCN logo on their vehicles,  stressing that anyone found guilty of this would be sanctioned.

    He also directed youths above 35 years should only serve at the National Advisory Council level of the NYCN, stressing that henceforth, the council’s leadership will be within the age range of 33 to 35 years.

    He  called on youths to work hard with the interest of the nation at heart, while advising them to not let themselves be deceived by over ambitious politicians who do not mean well for the country.

    Earlier, the Chairman, Board of Trustees of the NYCN Mr Dickson Akoh, appealed to members seeking elective positions, who have been barred constitutionally from contesting due to the age limit enshrined in the constitution, to comply so as to enable the council move forward.

    He also charged the newly inaugurated committee members to be committed in delivering on the mandate given to them, and hoped to  inaugurate a substantive executive members of the council in the shortest period.

    NAN

  • Oil Block:  Lawmakers to revoke licenses of erring firms 

    Oil Block:  Lawmakers to revoke licenses of erring firms 

    *Promises to back indigenes of the region who have interest in oil business

    The House of Representatives has said it would revoke licenses of some operators of oil block who erred in the process of obtaining their licenses.

    The House of Representatives Ad hoc Committee on Oil Prospecting License and Oil Exploration led by Hon. Gideon Wani spoke on  Friday at Idama platform in Akuku Toru Local Government Area of the state when the committee visited Belemaoil Producing Limited

    Wani also said it would support the people of the Niger Delta to be fully involved in doing business on petroleum products.

    He said the Committee on Oil Prospecting License and Oil Exploration License is commissioned to investigate the licensing of oil companies operating in the country.

    He noted that it would be a form of encouragement to retrieve licenses that were not properly obtained by some companies and hand them over to indigenous operators, adding that when such licenses were revoked they would be given to people from Niger Delta region who have interest oil business.

    Wani said: “We have been mandated by the House of Representatives to investigate all holders of prospecting and exploration licenses. We want to know the number of licenses and the number of companies operating with them. We also want to find out if the process of obtaining the licenses were followed.

    “Niger Deltans have not been doing business on oil. We want to return some of this oil blocks to the people of this region. This is to allow people of this area to also do business. Belemaoil is in a good business to do this business because it is owned by somebody from the Niger Delta”.

    Responding, the Chairman of National Youth Council of Nigeria, NYCN, Mr. Sukubo Sara-Igbe, thanked the federal house for the agitation in favor of the people of Niger Delta.

    Sara-Igbe said if more opportunities were given to the people of the area to do business on oil that the agitations in the region would be tamed.

  • Rivers youths protest in Ogoni over oil firm

    Thousands of Rivers youths under the aegis of   National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) Rivers State Chapter yesterday carried out a peaceful protest in support of the activities of Belema Oil Limited in Ogoni land.

    Belema oil is a new firm that has showed interest to take over from Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) in Ogoni land. But it has witnessed hitches from Ogoni youths and other stakeholders who have refused to endorse the company’s interest.

    In a solidarity protest in support of the company in Port Harcourt, Rivers State capital, the leadership of National Youth Council of Nigeria, Rivers State Chapter passed a vote of confidence on Belema Oil to carry on with its oil exploration in Ogoni land.

    The group disclosed its resolution in a peaceful protest organized by NYCN from the 23 Local Government Areas in the state and the youths were actively participated.

    The State Chairman, NYCN, Amb. Sara-Igbe Sukubo said the youths of Rivers state have accepted Belema Oil Company to continue with their production in Ogoniland in spite of challenges being encountered with the host communities.

    He noted that the youths are happy with the company because it is owned and managed by a Rivers man, adding that their stand is in consonance with the Nigerian Content Act which encourages indigenous products.

  • Ex-council chair praises NYCN

    Ex-council chair praises NYCN

    YOUTHS have been urged to plan their future if they want to live purposeful lives.

    The first chairman of Apapa-Iganmu Local Development Council Area (LCDA), Lagos,  Dr Christopher Anago  gave the advice during a visit by executives of the National Youths Council of Nigeria (NYCN) led by the LG chapter of the group,  Comrade Franklin Nero.

    He said also the youth should not peer groups that could tarnish their images. ‘Per groups influence them. They want to get rich at all costs. That is why at 18 or 19, they carry guns. They do not want to be patient, ‘’ he said.

    He said parents have a major role in the growth of the children, adding that these days some parents are more concerned with money making than playing their roles at home. “In a balanced home, parents should be able to groom their children. But some parents do not have for their children. How do these children get good home training? Such children end up being bad from home,” he said.

    On bad companies, he said when children are not good at home, they could join bad companies. “Such children go out and return any time they like or late at night. Yet, their parents would ask why,” he added. Noting that children are the ambassadors of their parents, he said: “If any child misbehaves, the bad news will be in the name of the parent.  Unfortunately most parents do not look at this aspect.”

    He asked the youth not to remain idle, saying an idle mind is the devil’s workshop. “They should engage in meaningful jobs, no matte menial, saying the bottom line is money. Citing himself, he said, as a pupil  he carried loads and used the money he realised to support his education. “When I left school, I carried loads and I made money from it. I built my life from the beginning. I didn’t depend on my parents,” he recalled.

    These days, he said youths complain of poor earnings. He said it should not be so as one had to start from somewhere. “They should know that they have to start from the bottom, and not the top,’’ he said. “They need to endure and take good advice. Listen to elders, respect their parents if they want to live long.”

    He called on the rich to assist the youth by establishing firms that would employ them.

    Anago praised Nero and NYCN for their programmes, especially in educating the youth to avoid bad habits and live good lives. He promised to partner with them on their upcoming event titled: Role of  youth in 2015 election. He recalled his relationship with the youth group during his days in office, saying that he was happy that they still remember him six years after he had left.