ADEOLA OGUNLADE
The Junior Chamber International (JCI) Nigeria has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ikeja Local Government to deepen collaboration on youth development and promote the ideals of Human Duties Day through sustained community engagement.
Speaking recently at the signing ceremony held at the local government Secretariat, the Executive Vice President of JCI Nigeria, Ambassador Idara Michael, said the partnership was informed by the local government’s consistent commitment to youth empowerment and leadership development over the years.
She explained that although JCI is non-partisan, the organisation actively engages with institutions and policymakers to drive positive social change.
“While we are not partisan, we are not quiet. We are in the rooms where it matters and having conversations where it matters. Ikeja Local Government, in particular, has been intentional about youth development in partnership with our organisation over the past couple of years, and this year we have seen that commitment in action,” she said.
Michael noted that the collaboration is part of activities marking Human Duties Day, commemorated annually on July 10, which seeks to encourage citizens to embrace their responsibilities alongside their rights.
She disclosed that under the agreement, both organisations would implement programmes every July 10 centred on the seven pillars of Human Duties, including preserving life, sustaining community and promoting responsible citizenship
Responding, the Executive Chairman of Ikeja Local Government, Comrade Akeem Olalekan Dauda (AKOD), commended JCI Nigeria for its unwavering commitment to youth development and nation-building.
Dauda reaffirmed the readiness of the council to partner with JCI and other credible youth-focused organisations in advancing sustainable development and improving the well-being of residents.
“We are ready to provide the needed platform for JCI and other youth organisations that genuinely have the interest and welfare of the people at heart. Government cannot do it alone. We need the support of non-governmental organisations and institutions to achieve sustainable development and improve the livelihoods of our people,” Dauda said.
He assured the organisation of the council’s continued commitment to creating opportunities that would empower young people and strengthen community development initiatives across Ikeja.
Also speaking, the Supervisor for Youth and Sports, Adenuga Ayotunde, praised Dauda for his unwavering support for youth empowerment, noting that the chairman’s administration has initiated several youth-centred programmes aimed at helping young people realise their aspirations.