By Ibironke Ariyo
The Federal Government has welcomed the appointment of Chief Obinna Nwaka, as Nigeria’s Focal Person for the Nigeria-South Africa Youth Fellowship/Exchange Programme.
Nwaka, is the Director-General, Committee of Youth on Mobilisation and Sensitisation (CYMS).
The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, described the appointment as a strategic step to strengthen youth engagement and deepen regional cooperation between Nigeria and South Africa.
In a statement issued by Hosea Parah, Media and Publicity Officer of CYMS Nigeria, in Abuja, the minister expressed confidence that the appointment would enhance Nigeria’s contribution to the programme.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the appointment was announced by the Universal Greening Organisation (UGO) in a statement signed by its Director of International Relations, Omolemo Somolekae.
The appointment, which took effect from April 1, 2026, reflects Nwaka’s experience in youth mobilisation, leadership development and international engagement.
The minister said the development was in line with government’s commitment to expanding platforms for youth participation in continental initiatives.
“This appointment is a strategic step towards strengthening Nigeria’s youth diplomacy and deepening regional cooperation between Nigeria and South Africa.
“We are committed to ensuring that young Nigerians are positioned to benefit from meaningful exchange programmes that build leadership capacity, innovation, and regional collaboration.
“Chief Nwaka’s appointment reflects confidence in his track record in youth mobilisation and his ability to drive impactful international youth collaboration,” the minister said.
Olawande also noted that the appointment would provide opportunities for Nigerian youths to engage at the continental level and gain exposure to skills development, policy dialogue and cross-border cooperation.
According to him, the programme will equip young people with practical experience in climate action, sustainable development, and regional partnership building.
“In his new role, Nwaka will coordinate Nigeria’s participation, lead delegations and serve as liaison between UGO and Nigerian institutions.
“He is also expected to oversee implementation of the programme and coordinate selection of participants,” he said.
NAN reports that Nwaka has led initiatives aimed at promoting youth participation in governance, national development and empowerment programmes.
NAN also reports that as focal person, Nwaka will lead selected Nigerian youth to South Africa to complete a 90-day training programme, which includes a seven-day in-country visit to South Africa.
The Nigeria–South Africa Exchange Fellowship Programme is designed to deepen bilateral relations and equip young leaders with skills in climate action, sustainable development and regional cooperation.
The programme would involve exchange visits, joint projects and policy engagement between participants from both countries.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Sadiya Hamza
