…Young Nigerians Ready to Lead, Says JCI President
By Eniola Adesipe
Ibadan is set to welcome 1,500 young leaders from across Nigeria and beyond as Junior Chamber International (JCI) Elite Nigeria officially unveiled the logo for its 26th National Convention. Scheduled to hold in October 2026, the landmark event aims to provide mentorship, skill-building, community engagement, and networking opportunities to groom the next generation of leaders who will drive positive change across the country.
At the unveiling ceremony, youths under the JCI Elite platform issued a sharp challenge to political office holders, urging them to create more opportunities for leadership development.
According to participants, the lack of structured mentorship and practical experience for young Nigerians has limited their ability to contribute meaningfully to national growth and development.
JCIN Amb. Akinbode Abitogun, National President of JCI Nigeria, highlighted that the organisation, which has operated in Nigeria for 69 years, remains committed to equipping young people with leadership skills in four strategic areas: community impact, business, individual development, and international exposure.
“JCI Ibadan Elite does not wait for government to solve every problem. We provide structured opportunities for young people to serve, lead, and make decisions that impact society. The message to Nigerian leaders is clear: young people are ready. They have the skills, passion, and capacity to lead,” Abitogun said.
He further noted that JCI Elite Nigeria forms part of a global network spanning more than 100 countries, allowing young leaders to gain international exposure and experience. “Through conferences and exchanges, our members learn, network, and build partnerships that transcend national boundaries. Our goal is to nurture leaders who are competent, accountable, and visionary,” he added.
JCI Elite Ibadan, the host city for the 2026 convention, unveiled an official logo.
JCIN Amb. Ibukunoluwa Otesile, JCI Elite Ibadan President, explained that the logo reflects the need to honour the past while leveraging current opportunities to shape the future.
“The Cocoa House reminds us of Ibadan’s legacy, a city that has produced landmark achievements that made Africa proud. The convention will bring together participants from across Africa and the global JCI community to amplify impact, strengthen structures, and enhance visibility. We call on youths to learn from the past and use the opportunities available today to create measurable, positive change,” Otesile, the host president, said.
The 26th National Convention is themed “Amplifying Impact,” reflecting a focus on scaling up initiatives that strengthen communities and empower young Nigerians. The programme is designed to foster practical engagement, offering participants hands-on experience in leadership, entrepreneurship, and civic responsibility.
Education and emerging sectors, particularly the green economy, will form a key component of discussions at the convention. Micheal Adebisi, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, emphasised the importance of preparing youths for future challenges.
“Learning does not only happen in the classroom; it also occurs in everyday experiences. Yet, structured and well-funded education remains fundamental. The government must prioritise education, it must be accessible, affordable, and properly structured. Failing to invest now risks weakening the next generation for decades,” Adebisi said.
Adebisi also pointed out that young people today face higher education costs and reduced access to quality schooling, compared to previous generations. Scholarships abroad, robust public education, and affordable learning opportunities were once widely accessible, he noted.
“To prepare future leaders, we must strengthen both public and private education sectors. This is a national imperative,” he added.
The convention will also focus on community service, business networking, and international engagement, providing participants with a platform to develop critical leadership and entrepreneurial skills.
JCI’s model emphasises active citizenship, encouraging young people to contribute to national development rather than waiting for government action.
Abitogun stressed that JCI Nigeria’s mission is to bridge the gap between potential and opportunity for young people. “We want youths to take the lead in shaping Nigeria’s future. Leadership should be grounded in competence, character, and capability. We urge our leaders to govern with fairness, integrity, and commitment to the public good,” he said.
