President, Ministers to Receive Awards at WAYP 2024 International Youth Day Celebration

The West Africa Youth Parliament (WAYP) is proud to announce the celebration of International Youth Day this August. This event serves as a platform for the youth of West Africa to engage in reflective discussions and renew their commitment to the region’s unity and progress.

West African youth, despite historical challenges and socioeconomic hardships, are poised to lead the charge against foreign interference and subjugation. This year’s International Youth Day is an opportunity for the youth to identify the challenges facing the African sub-region and devise solutions.

The theme for this year’s celebration, “Youths as a Driving Force for West Africa Unity and Integration,” underscores the critical role of youth in fostering regional cohesion. The recent political turmoil in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, marked by military coups and subsequent exits from ECOWAS, highlights the urgent need for a return to democratic governance. The Youth Parliament urges the military juntas in these nations to restore democracy for the sake of social integration and regional development.

In the statement signed by the Speaker of West Africa Youth Parliament, Olasunkanmi john kolawole, said this year’s event will focus on key issues including the establishment of a United States of West Africa (USWA), the introduction of a common currency, and the implementation of a visa-free regime for cross-border travelers and businesses. The summit will also address youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, ICT innovation, cross-border business expansion, and regional partnerships.

In recognition of outstanding contributions to society, the Platinum Achievers Award will be presented to individuals who have excelled in their respective fields. Honorees include:

• President of Senegal, Bassirou Diomanye Faye
• Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike
• Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye
• Minister of Youth Development, Ayo Olawande
• Group Head of the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited, Mele Kyari
• Managing Director of the Transmission Company of Nigeria, Dr. Sule Abdulaziz
• Executive Secretary of the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria, Prof. Garba Sharubutu
• Managing Director of Felak Concept Limited, Mrs. Aisha Achimugu
• Managing Director of Connexxion Group of Company Limited, Engr. Maxwell Esan
• Chairman of Kuje Area Council
• Managing Director of Afro Euro Investments, Omooba Ayoola Adekunle
• Commandant General of Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps
• Speaker of Osun State House of Assembly, Hon. Okowa-Daramola Marilyn
• Hon. Ibori-Suenu Erhiatake
• Apostle Johnson Sulayman
• Hon. Abdullahi Hallims
• Deputy Governor Central Bank Corporate Services, Dr. Bala Mohammed
• Governors of Benue, Kogi, and Niger

The Platinum Achievers Award recognizes their dedication, commitment, and steadfastness in uplifting lives and promoting societal growth. The parliament appreciates their efforts and encourages continued excellence in their endeavors.

The keynote address on regional integration will be delivered by Prof. Rasheed Na’Allah, Vice Chancellor of the University of Abuja, with support from Amb. Francis Njoaguani, Director of Youths and Sports Development at the ECOWAS Secretariat. The summit will be chaired by Alhaji Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The West Africa Youth Parliament congratulates all awardees and looks forward to a successful celebration of International Youth Day.