‘To accelerate development’ — JCI partners FG on youth empowerment

Junior Chamber International (JCI) Nigeria will partner the federal ministry of youth development to “empower Nigerian youths and accelerate national development”.

Oluwatoyin Atanda, JCI Nigeria president, spoke after a meeting with Ayodele Olawande, minister for youth development.

The meeting held on Friday at the minister’s office in Abuja.

Atanda said the event marked a significant milestone in re-establishing a fruitful partnership.

She added that the renewed collaboration aligns with ‘Partnerships’ — one of the eight strategic pillars of the ELV8 leadership philosophy of the 2025 JCI Nigeria team.

“The Honorable Minister signed a formal document committing to promoting International Human Duties Day, earning him the distinguished title of International Duty Ambassador,” the statement reads.

“The Minister pledged his support for JCI Nigeria’s National Convention (NATCON), scheduled to take place in Akure, his hometown. He commended JCI Nigeria for its strategy of hosting national events across the country.

“Atanda assured the Minister that JCI Nigeria remains committed to advancing the Ministry’s goals and fostering a collaborative environment for youth empowerment.

“She stated that the renewed partnership marks a new chapter of impactful initiatives designed to unlock the potential of Nigerian youth and contribute meaningfully to national development.”

Olawande appreciated JCI Nigeria for its “unwavering commitment to youth development and national progress and promised to collaborate with the organisation in line with the ministry’s vision of building a nation of renewed hope through youth empowerment by unlocking pathways for every Nigerian youth to succeed”.

Members of the JCI Nigeria delegation at the meeting included Oluwatoyin Atanda, national president and team lead; Ayodeji Akinwade, executive vice president, north-west; Adewale Oshinaike, executive vice president, north-east.

Others were Yetunde Adebisi, national treasurer, JCI; Attairu Abdullahi, 2025  vice president, JCI (Africa and middle east); Adetola Akinola, 2019 national president; Sanni Babatunde, international executive secretary, JCI Nigeria; Ibrahim Asiwaju Abayomi, personal assistant to the national president; and Ameera Abdullahi, collegiate chairperson.