JCI lists 10 inspiring young persons

August 25, 2025 by Our Reporter

Junior Chamber International Nigeria has unveiled honorees at 2025 JCI Ten Outstanding Young Persons of Nigeria at a ceremony in Lagos, in commemoration of International Youth Day.

 Representative and Chief of Taiwan Mission in Nigeria, Mr. Andy Liu, underscored the role of young people in global development, saying “Youth are not just future, but driving forces of innovation, creativity, and resilience to shape stronger societies.”

Drawing parallels from Taiwan, he noted how investments in education, technology, and youth empowerment can be key to national growth and transformation. He urged Nigerian youths to embrace leadership, entrepreneurship, and civic responsibility.

He reaffirmed Taiwan’s commitment to supporting platforms that recognise youth changemakers.

They are Aramide Kayode (Academic Leadership), Ifedayo Durosinmi-Etti (Business, and Entrepreneurial); Prada Uzodinma (Peace and Human Rights); Morenike Olusanya (Cultural Achievement), Praise Akobo (Medical Innovation); and Jumoke Dada (Moral and Environment).

Others are TobilobaAjayi (Humanitarian and Voluntary Leadership); Elizabeth Oshoba (Personal Improvement and Accomplishment); Chinwe Okoli (Political, Legal and Governmental Affairs), and Fisayo Fosudo (Scientific and Technological Development).

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Delivering the keynote address, Special Adviser on Sustainable Development Goals to Lagos State governor, Dr. Oreoluwa Finnih-Awokoya, noted the role of young leaders and changemakers in advancing sustainable development.

“The SDGs are not abstract concepts. They are concrete challenges and opportunities visible in our neigborhoods, cities, and states. The role of changemakers within JCI underscores the profound impact that dedicated individuals can have at the local level. Through initiatives like TOYP, we see how local action fuels global change,” she said. She urged JCI Members and young people across Nigeria to align their projects within specific SDGs and leverage partnerships with local governments, civil societies, and the private sector to strengthen impact and build stronger communities.

In her welcome remarks, Yetunde Oyeyipo [Chairperson of the 2025 JCI Nigeria TOYP Program] described the Ceremony as a platform to celebrate giants and inspire the next generation of leaders. “Today, we have gathered here because of giants who came before us – dreamers, doers, and daring trailblazers who believed in the power of youth to shape nations and transform futures. Hence, it is our responsibility to serve as giants to other young persons and help them see further than their circumstance, environment, and resources would ever permit. Each of our nominees is proof that local action can fuel global change. They are living examples of transformational leaders who are not waiting for permission to act,” she said.

The 2025 President of JCI Nigeria, Oluwatoyin Atanda, also reiterated the organization’s commitment to empowering young people as the driving force of positive change. “The TOYP platform is an opportunity to honor exceptional young Nigerians who exemplify excellence, courage, and innovation. Their legacy inspires us to continue to encourage, empower, and celebrate the transformational role of youth in shaping a brighter tomorrow,” she said. 

The event also featured a panel session themed “Global Youth Alliances – Breaking Barriers, Building Sustainable Bridges”, where speakers shared insights on strengthening youth-led collaboration for long-term social impact. The Ceremony underscored JCI’s commitment to providing a fertile ground for leadership and community transformation.

A highlight of the Ceremony was the formal announcement of the global voting phase, as JCI Nigeria announced that two exceptional Honorees have been nominated on the global stage for the 2025 JCI Ten Outstanding Young Persons (TOYP) recognition – Aramide Kayode (nee Akintimehin) and IfedayoDurosinmi-Etti. These global nominees embody resilience, innovation, and impact, as their work represents Nigeria’s finest contribution to a future shaped by bold, youth-driven leadership. To vote and learn more about the global nominees, visit https://toyp.jci.cc/