Junior Chamber International (JCI) Nigeria has unveiled its 2025 Ten Outstanding Young Persons (TOYP), celebrating exceptional achievements of young Nigerians in commemoration of International Youth Day.
The prestigious ceremony, held in Lagos, brought together leaders, innovators, and changemakers, underscoring the critical role of young people in shaping Nigeria’s future.
Delivering the keynote address, the Representative and Chief of the Taiwan Mission in Nigeria, His Excellency Andy Yih-Ping Liu, described youth as the driving force of innovation, creativity, and resilience needed to build stronger societies.
Drawing lessons from Taiwan’s development journey, he highlighted the transformative impact of investing in education, technology, and youth empowerment, urging Nigerian youths to embrace entrepreneurship, civic responsibility, and leadership...READ FULL ARTICLE>>
“Youth are not just the future; they are the engine of progress today. Their energy and ideas are indispensable for addressing present challenges and advancing sustainable development,” Liu said, reaffirming Taiwan’s support for platforms like the TOYP initiative.
This year’s honourees represent excellence across diverse fields:
- Aramide Kayode — Academic Leadership and Accomplishment
- Ifedayo Durosinmi-Etti — Business, Economic and Entrepreneurial Accomplishment
- Prada Uzodinma — Contribution to Children, World Peace and Human Rights
- Morenike Olusanya — Cultural Achievement
- Praise Akobo — Medical Innovation
- Jumoke Dada — Moral and Environmental Leadership
- Tobiloba Ajayi — Humanitarian and Voluntary Leadership
- Elizabeth Oshoba — Personal Improvement and Accomplishment
- Chinwe Okoli — Political, Legal and Governmental Affairs
- Fisayo Fosudo — Scientific and Technological Development
Speaking on the theme “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond,” Dr. Oreoluwa Finnih-Awokoya, Special Adviser on Sustainable Development Goals to the Lagos State Governor, stressed the importance of youth-led local initiatives in driving global change.
“The SDGs are not abstract. They are real issues in our neighbourhoods and communities. Through platforms like TOYP, we see how local action fuels global progress,” she said, urging young Nigerians to align their work with specific SDGs and collaborate with government, civil society, and the private sector.
In her welcome address, Yetunde Oyeyipo, Chairperson of the 2025 JCI Nigeria TOYP Programme, described the ceremony as a celebration of “giants” whose achievements will inspire generations to come. “Each of our nominees is living proof that young people need not wait for permission to act. They are transformational leaders redefining the future,” she said.
JCI Nigeria President, Oluwatoyin Atanda, reaffirmed the organisation’s mission to empower young people as catalysts for positive change.
“The TOYP platform honours young Nigerians who exemplify courage, innovation, and excellence. Their legacies inspire us all to keep building a brighter tomorrow,” she noted.
The event also featured a panel discussion themed “Global Youth Alliances – Breaking Barriers, Building Sustainable Bridges,” which explored strategies to deepen youth collaboration for long-term social impact.
A major highlight was the announcement that two honourees, Aramide Kayode and Ifedayo Durosinmi-Etti, have been nominated for the 2025 JCI Ten Outstanding Young Persons global recognition.
Their selection positions Nigeria on the world stage, showcasing youth leadership, resilience, and innovation...READ FULL ARTICLE>>