The Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Ebonyi State Chapter, Comrade Douglas Ochishi, has extended warm congratulations to Comrade Babangida Onimisi Isah on his emergence as the newly elected National President of the NYCN, following a keenly contested election.
Speaking to journalists in Abakaliki on Tuesday, Comrade Ochishi described the election as a landmark moment in Nigeria’s youth leadership trajectory.
He commended the process, supervised by the National Transition Committee (NTC), as transparent and credible, with Comrade Isah securing 243 votes out of 497 accredited delegates to defeat his closest rival, Comrade Ahmad Abubakar, who garnered 228 votes.
“A great thing has happened for Nigerian youths. Comrade Isah’s emergence is a testament to democratic resilience within NYCN, and I was proud to mobilize southeast delegates in support of his progressive vision.”
Comrade Ochishi also addressed the recent controversy surrounding the withdrawal of NYCN’s registration by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), explaining that the NYCN is backed by an Act of Parliament enacted in 1964, which gives it statutory existence much like other national bodies such as NANS and NLC.
“The council was never dissolved. Rather, the move to de-register from CAC was a necessary step to uphold the NYCN’s legislative foundation and remove the legal ambiguities caused by incorporation under CAC. We must be governed by the Act, not trustees," he clarified.
Since assuming office on May 26, 2024, Comrade Ochishi said he has focused on reviving NYCN structures in Ebonyi State. He recounted achievements such as securing operational offices, hosting multiple youth empowerment summits, and leading sensitization campaigns on voter registration, NIN acquisition, and positive social media use.
He noted programs like the “Youth in Agriculture” roundtable, the 2024 International Youth Week celebration, and upcoming initiatives, including Nigeria Youth Day in November and further reorientation drives.
“Our youth need direction, not just empowerment funds. Supportive supervision and financial literacy must follow any economic intervention to ensure sustainability," he further stated.
On the issue of insecurity, Ochishi expressed optimism in the new national leadership’s ability to initiate collaborative strategies. He revealed plans for a national meeting of state NYCN chairmen with Comrade Isah to address security, youth restiveness, and child trafficking.
He emphasized grassroots engagement through traditional rulers, community leaders, and clergy as part of Ebonyi State’s ongoing campaign to “see something, say something.”
Reacting to the trend of young people abandoning professions to chase political positions, Comrade Ochishi urged youth to pursue education, entrepreneurship, or skill acquisition before entering politics.
“Politics should not be a shortcut to survival. I advocate for apprenticeship and mentorship, which provide youths with real business knowledge, networks, and resilience - tools far more valuable than temporary political ambition," he said.
As the NYCN prepares for a new era under Comrade Isah’s national leadership, Ochishi reaffirmed his commitment to championing the voice and potential of Nigerian youths through inclusive programs and strategic advocacy.
During the session, Comrade Celestine Chukwumerije, leader of Ebia Development Centre Union of Undergraduates, commended Ochishi’s leadership, citing his mentorship and community impact.
“He’s not just a leader; he’s one of us.Our visit is to show solidarity and collaborate on upcoming educational initiatives like ‘Sense the Session,’ focused on adult education and capacity building," Chukwumerije said.
