As part of activities to commemorate its 60th anniversary, the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has said it will confer President Bola Tinubu with its most prestigious award – the Grand Patron of Nigerian Youths.

In a statement signed by the President of the group, Sukubo Sara-Igbe Sukubo, and made available to The Guardian, the Council announced that the event will be hosted by the Governor of Rivers State, Sim Fubara, with the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande as the Special Guest.

The event themed: “60 Years of NYCN: Reflecting on the Past, Maximizing the Present, and Shaping the Future,” will hold on December 7, 2024, at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium in Elekahia, Port Harcourt.

Sukubo said the diamond jubilee celebration which will witness over 200,000 Nigerian youths attend virtually and physically, will also recognize its past leaders for their outstanding contributions to youth development.

The NYCN President stated that the occasion will feature a keynote address by renowned Kenyan lawyer and activist, Prof. Patrick Lumumba, who will share insights on the theme of the celebration.

“The event will be graced by the Sultan of Sokoto, His Majesty Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, who will co-chair the occasion with His Imperial Majesty, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, the NYCN Royal Father of Nigerian Youths. Additionally, NYCN Matron Dr. Elizabeth Jack-Rich will also be in attendance.

“This grand anniversary celebration will bring together key stakeholders, including state governors, ministers, 36 state commissioners of youth, captains of industry, and youth leaders from across the country.

The gathering will serve as an opportunity for reflection, recognition of past achievements, and renewed commitment to shaping the future of Nigerian youth.

“NYCN calls on all Nigerian youths, youth development stakeholders, and all those passionate about the nation’s future to join this momentous occasion.

It is a time to reflect on the Council’s achievements, celebrate its growth, and look forward to continued leadership and transformation of Nigerian youth. Let us come together to honor the past, engage in the present, and inspire the future of Nigerian youth,” he said.