The Junior Chamber International (JCI) Nigeria has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ikeja Local Government to strengthen collaboration on youth development and promote the ideals of Human Duties Day through sustained community-based initiatives.
The agreement was formalised during a ceremony at the Ikeja Local Government Secretariat, where the Executive Vice President of JCI Nigeria, Ambassador Idara Michael, described the partnership as a reflection of the council’s consistent investment in youth empowerment and leadership development.
According to her, while JCI remains a non-partisan organisation, it actively engages with government institutions and policymakers to drive meaningful social change.
“While we are not partisan, we are not quiet. We are in the rooms where it matters and having conversations where it matters. Ikeja Local Government has been intentional about youth development in partnership with our organisation over the past few years, and this year we have seen that commitment in action,” she said.
Michael explained that the collaboration forms part of activities commemorating Human Duties Day, observed annually on July 10, to encourage citizens to embrace their responsibilities alongside their rights.
She revealed that the partnership would see both organisations jointly organise annual programmes every July 10, focusing on the seven pillars of Human Duties, including preserving life, strengthening communities and promoting responsible citizenship.
Responding, the Executive Chairman of Ikeja Local Government, Comrade Akeem Olalekan Dauda (AKOD), applauded JCI Nigeria for its unwavering commitment to youth empowerment and nation-building.
Dauda reaffirmed the council’s readiness to collaborate with JCI and other credible youth-focused organisations to promote sustainable development and improve the welfare of residents.
“We are ready to provide the needed platform for JCI and other youth organisations that genuinely have the interest and welfare of the people at heart. Government cannot do it alone. We need the support of non-governmental organisations and institutions to achieve sustainable development and improve the livelihoods of our people,” he said.
The council chairman assured the organisation of his administration’s continued commitment to creating opportunities that empower young people and strengthen community development across Ikeja.
Also speaking, the Supervisor for Youth and Sports, Adenuga Ayotunde, commended Dauda for his steadfast support for youth empowerment, noting that the administration has implemented several youth-focused initiatives designed to help young people realise their potential and contribute meaningfully to society.
