NYCN OKIGWE ZONE Disowns Endorsement, Pushes For Performance And Consolidation — Not OneTerm Rotation In Senate Seat

The National Youth Council of Nigeria, Okigwe Zone Chapter, has firmly distanced itself from the resolutions and claims made by a group of individuals who recently convened a so-called youth summit in Owerri, describing their positions as unrepresentative and lacking the legitimacy of a duly recognized apex youth body.

In a strongly worded response issued by the Media Directorate of the Zonal Leadership of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (Okigwe Zone), the Council clarified that those parading themselves as “apex youth leaders” across Okigwe Zone are unknown within its established structure and have no mandate to speak on behalf of the youths of the zone. The NYCN emphasized that as the constitutionally recognized umbrella body for all youth organizations in Nigeria, its Okigwe chapter remains the authentic voice of the youths and the only body empowered to articulate their collective interests.

The Council reiterated that the true position of Okigwe youths is rooted in continuity, consolidation, and measurable performance, principles that guide sustainable political advancement rather than experimental leadership.

The statement highlighted that sustained developmental impact and measurable achievements remain key considerations for the youths when evaluating leadership. It noted that in recent years, certain individuals holding elective positions within Okigwe Zone have demonstrated significant engagement with their constituents, leading to tangible improvements in the zone’s development and strategic representation. The Council observed that the current senator representing the zone has delivered performance above the average set by his predecessors, setting a benchmark in legislative engagement and constituency development. This performance-driven approach, according to the Council, should be central to decisions on political continuity.

The Council further stressed that Okigwe Zone must move away from the cycle of one-term representation in the Senate, which it described as detrimental to long-term growth and policy continuity. Legislative effectiveness, it noted, is built over time through experience, influence, and the ability to consolidate gains, qualities often undermined by frequent turnover.

“Effective representation is not a sprint but a marathon,” the Council observed, adding that maintaining continuity with leaders who have delivered measurable results strengthens institutional memory, enhances bargaining power at the national level, and ensures ongoing projects and policies are fully realized.

The Council also emphasized that it remains committed to democratic principles and will not stop or discourage any individual constitutionally qualified to contest for elective positions within Okigwe Zone. However, it clarified that performance and demonstrated impact will be the primary criteria guiding the decisions of the apex youth body.

For those who are not serving as elective, appointed, or public officers seeking election, the Council stated that careful consideration will be given to their past records, antecedents, and character before any endorsement, consideration, or support is granted.

While reaffirming its focus on performance and continuity, the Council acknowledged the contributions of current leaders whose efforts have positively affected the lives of youths and communities across Okigwe Zone, commending these achievements as benchmarks for what the youths value in leadership.

The NYCN called on all youths, stakeholders, and well-meaning leaders of Okigwe Zone to uphold unity, support strategic consolidation, and prioritize proven performance as the basis for political engagement and decision-making.

Reaffirming its commitment to responsible and informed participation, the Council urged political actors to desist from actions that may mislead the public or create unnecessary divisions among the youths. The future of Okigwe, it concluded, lies in informed choices, continuity, and measurable results.

This statement is issued by the Media Unit of the Apex Youth Body, National Youth Council of Nigeria (Okigwe Zone).