The Youth Alliance for Northern Development (YAND) has pledged full support to the newly appointed Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Citizenship and Leadership, Hon. Nasir Bala Aminu Ja’oji, during a courtesy visit in Abuja.
The visit, led by YAND Convener Hon. Seyi Olorunsola, aimed to strengthen collaboration on civic education, leadership training, and youth empowerment across Northern Nigeria.
Speaking during the meeting, Olorunsola praised President Tinubu for creating a dedicated office for citizenship and leadership engagement, calling it a bold step toward raising young Nigerians who understand responsibility, ethics, and national unity.
He said citizenship education must go beyond classroom learning.
He noted that it is the bedrock on which we can build active, informed Nigerians who know both their rights and their responsibilities.
He also commended President Tinubu for appointing Ja’oji.
Olorunsola described Hon. Ja’oji as an energetic and youth-focused leader whose track record in youth mobilization and community development makes him well-suited for the role.
The convener said YAND is prepared to partner on civic engagement workshops, leadership boot camps, mentoring programmes, and community outreach.
“This is more than symbolism. Northern youth are our greatest resource, and with the right mentorship and opportunities, they can transform their communities and the country.”
YAND encouraged other youth groups, civil society organisations, and the media to support the citizenship and leadership agenda, emphasizing that strong collaboration will help build a future where leadership is rooted in service and citizenship is lived as a core national value.
In his response, Ja’oji welcomed YAND’s readiness to work with his office.
According to him, the collaboration would help drive citizenship awareness and leadership development.
“Our work goes beyond policy. It is about mobilizing young Nigerians around shared values, national pride, and collective responsibility.”
He also revealed new appointments within his office, including two Directors-General and media aides, to strengthen communication and outreach strategies.
Hon. Nasir Bala Aminu Ja’oji, appointed in August 2025, previously served as Special Adviser on Mobilisation in Kano State and is a member of the Coordinated Arewa Youth Groups’ governing council.
He has been widely recognized for his commitment to women and youth empowerment.