Belusochukwu Enwere, former national chairman of the Youth Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria, YOWICAN, says empowering young people is critical to Nigeria’s future.
Mr Enwere made the comment on Saturday during a Thanksgiving and reception ceremony held at Maria Mater Ecclesia in Ahiara, Mbaise, Imo state.
The event marked the completion of his five-year tenure as YOWICAN national chairman from 2021 to 2026.
Mr Enwere said the organisation focused on empowering young Christians and promoting youth leadership across the country during his tenure.
He said: “This has not been an ordinary tenure — it has been a season of unprecedented growth, impact, and divine alignment.
“We have empowered thousands of young Christian minds, built bridges across divides, and positioned YOWICAN as a beacon of youth excellence in our beloved Nigeria.”
Mr Enwere said youth empowerment is essential to national development.
He expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for what he described as support for youth leadership under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“To His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, your Renewed Hope Agenda has been the mighty wind beneath our wings.
“You ignited a national awakening that made space for young leaders like us to rise, innovate, and serve,” he said.
Mr Enwere also thanked the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for supporting initiatives of the organisation.
He said the support helped fund programmes aimed at assisting young people.
Mr Enwere expressed gratitude to Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo state for supporting his emergence as national chairman of YOWICAN.
“You saw the light and untapped potential in me when others looked away. Your mentorship, partnership, and belief transformed a personal calling into a national movement,” he said.
Mr Enwere also acknowledged the support of Seyi Tinubu during his tenure.
“You never allow Christian youths to lack anything during my tenure. You’re the hero of Christian youths in Nigeria,” he said.
Mr Enwere thanked the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria, CBCN, and the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, for their guidance and support.
He also appreciated Archbishop of Owerri Lucius Ugorji and the Bishop of Ahiara diocese, Simeon Okezuo Nwobi, for their spiritual leadership.
Mr Enwere acknowledged the contributions of his family, friends, and associates to the success of his tenure.
He said the achievements recorded during his leadership will continue to inspire youth development in the country.
“What we have achieved together is not the end, it is the beginning of greater things to come,” he said.
