Junior Chamber International (JCI) Nigeria has issued a clarion call to the Federal Government, advocating for a robust overhaul of national policies to better support the burgeoning ecosystem of young entrepreneurs.
Speaking at a media parley in Akwanga, Nasarawa State, JCIN Amb. Fatimat O. Usman, the 2026 Chairperson of the Creative Young Entrepreneur (CYE) Awards, emphasized that without deliberate intervention in power supply, taxation, and administrative accountability, the potential of Nigeria’s youth-led startups will remain stifled.
The CYE Mission: Scaling Ideas into Impact
The CYE Awards is not merely a competition but a strategic launchpad designed to transition raw innovation into commercially viable enterprises.
-
Global Benchmarking: As an international JCI initiative, the program offers training on legal frameworks, trademarking, and international partnerships.
-
Funding Milestones: Nigerian participants have already proven their mettle on the global stage, with a notable $5,000 win at the 2022 Africa and Middle East regional finals.
-
Resource Access: The 2026 edition continues to provide mentorship and visibility to bridge the “viability gap” that collapses many early-stage ventures.
A Call for Character Over “Quick Wins”
Supporting the Chairperson’s remarks, JCIN Amb. Akinbode Abitokun, the 2026 JCI Nigeria National President, urged the nation’s youth to adopt a long-term mindset. Addressing the social pressures facing young Nigerians, Abitokun cautioned against being used as political pawns for immediate personal gain.
“Politicians are not sending their own children [to the frontlines]; they are sending you. Be your own leader and make the right decisions,” Abitokun stated, urging youth to prioritize community legacy over transient rewards.
“Amplify 2026”: Leadership Across the Regions
The parley, held during the Mosese Kadeer Officers’ Training School, aligns with the organization’s 2026 theme: “Amplify.” According to Amb. Lanre Alawode (EVP, North-West), JCI is aggressively grooming a new generation of leaders to tackle Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges through structured advocacy and professional development.
Key Upcoming Engagements:
-
Inclusivity Drive: Amb. Hauwa Musa (EVP, North-East) called for expanded Federal opportunities for women to lead in nation-building efforts.
-
Northern Conference 2026: Delegate Amb. Unwana Bright Ekong announced that the Northern Conference will be hosted in Jos, Plateau State, this August, aiming to recruit and mentor thousands of new young leaders.
The organization concluded by urging the media to amplify these youth-led narratives to attract the corporate sponsorships and international partnerships necessary to sustain Nigeria’s “creative renaissance.”
