Lagos State Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Engr. Adigun Ibrahim Olalekan, MNSE, was recognized as the Outstanding Youth of the Year during the prestigious Pitch Communications 4th Annual Public Lecture and Award of Excellence held on Sunday at Radisson Blu Hotel, G.R.A, Ikeja.
As a panelist at the event, Engr. Adigun, represented by his Chief of Staff and Special Assistant on Special Duties, Comrade Tijani Lukman, delivered a compelling address on the role of youth and the importance of NYCN in driving societal transformation.
He highlighted the NYCN as the official representative body for young Nigerians, emphasizing its critical role in advocacy, reorientation, and addressing key societal issues.
He also urged young people to develop valuable skills, diversify entrepreneurial efforts, and seek mentorship to harness their full potential.
“The youth council is a vital platform for representing the aspirations of young Nigerians. We must collectively work to empower our youth through skill acquisition, entrepreneurial pursuits, and mentorship, fostering a generation of leaders prepared to drive change,” he said.
In recognition of his exemplary leadership and invaluable contributions to the youth constituency, Engr. Adigun was conferred with an Award of Excellence. Expressing gratitude, he described the award as a motivation to continue advocating for youth empowerment and development.
“I sincerely appreciate this recognition. It strengthens my resolve to keep championing the cause of youth development and inspiring positive change across the state and nation,” he remarked.
The event also featured a keynote address by Hon. Akinyemi Ajigbotafe, Lagos State Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, who underscored the importance of youth engagement in creating a prosperous Nigeria.
Prominent dignitaries at the ceremony included Comrade Saheed Tijani, SSA to Governor Sanwo-Olu on Wealth Creation and Employment; Hon. Ruth Ijirin, SSA to Governor Sanwo-Olu on Civic Engagement; Vice Chairman of Alimosho LG; Chairman of Ikorodu LG; and Hon. Ilyas Babatunde, CPS of Odi-Olowo Ojuwoye LCDA, who received an award on behalf of the Executive Chairman of Odi-Olowo Ojuwoye LCDA.
The awards ceremony celebrated excellence, leadership, and the contributions of youth leaders and advocates. The theme, focusing on youth as a driving force for national prosperity, resonated with the vibrant discussions and recognitions.
Engr. Adigun’s acknowledgment as Outstanding Youth of the Year underscores his dedication to youth advocacy and positions him as a beacon of inspiration for young Nigerians aspiring to make meaningful contributions to their communities and the nation at large.
This milestone reflects the growing recognition of youth as pivotal agents of change in Nigeria’s journey toward sustainable development.
