The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Ikorodu North Local Branch, convened its inaugural Annual Congress on Friday, December 27, 2025, at the LASTMA Yard, Ikorodu North, Lagos State.

The historic gathering marked a significant milestone in the growth and institutional development of the branch, bringing together youth leaders, government representatives, community stakeholders, and members to deliberate on strategies for sustainable youth engagement and development.

The Congress was held under the theme “Future-Focused Youth: Local Steps, Global Impact,” reflecting the branch’s vision of grooming proactive youths capable of driving positive change at the grassroots while making meaningful contributions on a global scale. The event underscored NYCN Ikorodu North’s unwavering commitment to youth empowerment, leadership development, and community advancement.

Delivering the welcome address, the Youth Coordinator of the branch, Comrade Jackson Adewale A. O., expressed appreciation to members and stakeholders for their support, noting that the congress was a defining moment in strengthening unity, accountability, and purposeful leadership among youths in Ikorodu North.

A major highlight of the congress was the keynote address delivered by Hon. Olakanmi Tijani, who charged participants to embrace a future-focused mindset in youth leadership.

He emphasized the need for innovation, civic responsibility, and strategic planning as essential tools for youths to remain relevant and impactful in an evolving society.

The congress also featured comprehensive presentations, including Secretariat Reports that showcased the achievements and milestones recorded by the branch within the year. Financial and Auditor’s Reports were equally presented, reaffirming the branch’s dedication to transparency, accountability, and prudent management of resources.

In recognition of outstanding contributions to youth development, awards were presented to deserving Community-Based Organizations (CBOs), Voluntary Youth Organizations (VYOs), and Directorates. Sheriff Guard of Nigeria, Ikorodu North, emerged as Best Performing VYO, while Agbala Otuja Youth Forum received the award for Most Active CBO. Maya Youth Association was honored as Best Performing CBO.

Individual recognitions included Comrade Momoh Yusroh as Most Outstanding Directorate, Comrade Hamzah Alagbe as Best Performing Directorate, and Comrade Ikimot Tijani as Most Supportive Directorate.

Special recognition plaques were also presented to dignitaries in appreciation of their unwavering support for youth development. Among those honored were the NYCN Lagos State Chairman, Engr. Adigun Ibrahim, the Vice Chairman, Lagos East, Comrade Asoro Abubakri, and other notable stakeholders.

Speaking at the event, Engr. Adigun Ibrahim commended the leadership and vision of NYCN Ikorodu North, describing the congress as a landmark achievement. He particularly applauded the branch’s active involvement in Continuous Voters Registration (CVR) advocacy, noting its importance in strengthening democratic participation among youths.

In a motivational gesture, three outstanding youths who were the first to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) were rewarded with instant cash gifts.

The congress also enjoyed the presence of the Divisional Commissioner of Scouts, Ikorodu Division, KIM Abdulhakeem Agbaje, as well as all councillors representing Ikorodu North Local Council Development Area, led by the Council Leader of the 6th Legislative Assembly, Hon. Bose Benson.

Overall, the 2025 Annual Congress stood as a testament to the capacity, vision, and renewed commitment of NYCN Ikorodu North to youth activism, empowerment, and community development. Participants described the event as impactful and forward-looking, setting a solid foundation for greater achievements in the years ahead.