Ambassador Sukubo Sara-Igbe Sukubo has secured a second four-year term as President of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), following a decisive win at the recent National Unity Elective Congress held in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
During the intense electoral process spanning Monday and Tuesday, Sukubo emerged overwhelmingly victorious, as announced by Dr. Bethel Oko-Jaja, the Returning Officer for the NYCN National Elective Congress. Sukubo amassed 756 votes, far surpassing his nearest contender, Elizabeth Olawande from the South-West, who received 32 votes, and Usaini Mohammad Kaoje from the North-West, who garnered 11 votes.
Notably, three other presidential hopefuls from the northern region, including Comrades Umaru Lauwa and Ibrahim Ismaila Adejoh, withdrew their candidacies to endorse Sukubo’s re-election campaign.
Alongside Sukubo’s reappointment, Comrade Innocent Nduanya was re-elected as Deputy President (South), with other key members of the National Executive Committee retaining their positions. The congress also welcomed new leadership appointments: Comrade Gara Soyonga Nongha as Secretary-General and Comrade Akoshile Mukhtar as Deputy President (North).
In his acceptance address, Sukubo committed to amplifying his dedication to youth-games/” title=”Lagos submits bid to host 2026 National … Games”>youth empowerment and development throughout his renewed tenure. He emphasized plans to launch more transformative initiatives aimed at uplifting Nigeria’s dynamic youth population.
He also called on the National Assembly to expedite the passage of the National Youth Council Bill currently under consideration, urging swift presidential assent to enable broader youth engagement and support.
Reflecting on the current administration’s efforts, Sukubo praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s policies benefiting young Nigerians. He highlighted improvements such as increased allowances for National Youth Service Corps members and the introduction of a student loan program, which marks a significant advancement for students nationwide.
“The recently approved national budget allocates substantial resources toward youth-centric development projects and small business funding through various presidential initiatives coordinated by the Youth Council,” Sukubo noted. “Additionally, the President’s proposal for a National Youth Conference offers a platform for young Nigerians to collaboratively shape their future.”
He reiterated the urgent need for the National Youth Council Bill’s enactment before year-end, stressing that its implementation would empower rural and community-based youths by providing them with a voice and access to impactful programs annually.
Sukubo expressed gratitude to President Tinubu, Governors Douye Diri of Bayelsa and Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers, Minister of Youth Ayodele Olawande, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, and Belemaoil President Tein T.S. Jack-Rich for their steadfast support in ensuring the success of the NYCN electoral process. He also acknowledged the critical roles played by the Inspector General of Police, the DSS Director General, and the National Assembly in maintaining a peaceful and credible election.
Representing Bayelsa State Governor, the Commissioner for Youth Development, Alfred Kemepado, extended congratulations to the newly elected NYCN leadership. He underscored the importance of tackling youth unemployment and implementing targeted educational programs as essential strategies to curb youth restiveness and related social issues.
Kemepado emphasized Bayelsa’s commitment to these priorities, noting that youth inclusion in governance and empowerment initiatives has contributed significantly to the state’s relative peace. “Addressing youth restiveness requires confronting unemployment and enhancing education in relevant fields, which remains a core focus for our government,” he stated.
The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, represented by DSP Musa Mohammed, urged Nigerian youths to reject crime and violence. He highlighted the pivotal role of the National Youth Council in fostering youth empowerment, education, and social responsibility, calling for comprehensive support from the Federal Government and all stakeholders.
“Youth involvement in criminal activities only leads to regret and lost opportunities,” the IGP remarked. “Young Nigerians should pursue positive endeavors and contribute meaningfully to society.”
Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Youth and Community Engagement and Spokesperson for the 10th Senate, represented by Adebayo Adesoji, reaffirmed the Senate’s dedication to advancing the National Youth Council Bill through the legislative process.
During the congress, the NYCN also announced the expulsion of Oscar Kalu, Ifeanyi Uzo, Dickson Aku, and thirty others for serious breaches of the Council’s constitution.
The event attracted a robust attendance, including former NYCN leaders, representatives from state chapters, and approximately 2,000 members from affiliated Voluntary Youth Organizations across Nigeria.
