The Council of Northern Youth Advocates of Nigeria (CNYAN) is pleading for more money to fix schools in the North. Too many kids roam the streets instead of learning in classrooms. CNYAN says boosting education funds can change this and give kids a brighter future.
The group made their case at a special event in Abuja, where they honored Prince Cletus Ilobanafor, CEO of CEOAFRICA, with the Sir Ahmadu Bello Platinum Award. Hon. Muhammed, CNYAN’s president, called Ilobanafor the Garkuwan Matasan Arewa—a champion of unity—for his work bringing Nigerians together.
“We have urged the government to invest in education and explore ways to take these children off the streets, educate and enlighten them so they can be useful to themselves and society,” Hon. Muhammed said. He dreams of kids in school, not on the streets, helping the North grow strong.
Muhammed praised Ilobanafor’s efforts. “Having gone through your track record, we have come to say that your life isn’t a predicament but a blessing to this generation and the ones yet unborn. The sky will not be your limit; we are ready to work and partner with you.” He admired how Ilobanafor tells Nigeria’s stories—”He has been instrumental in telling our stories in a better way”—and builds bridges for peace. The award’s words summed it up: “In appreciation of your immense contribution towards a united, one indivisible Nigeria; being a vanguard of youth emancipation and serving as a bridge of national unity and consensus.”
Prince Ilobanafor was thrilled. “I am so honoured to receive this award from the youth of the Northern extraction – the youth who are the future of tomorrow. So I accept this wholeheartedly.” He shared CEOAFRICA’s goal to show Africa’s greatness and fight malaria. He invited Hon. Muhammed to join the Geneith Health Competition, backed by ₦1 billion from Geneith Pharmaceuticals Ltd, to help students spread malaria awareness. “By engaging youths in this initiative, they can become ambassadors towards the fight against malaria, helping our country work towards becoming a malaria-free nation.”
Ilobanafor believes in youth power. “Nigerian youths are the biggest asset we have,” he said, urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to invest in them. “Investing in our youths is essential for the Nigeria we want.” He sees a Nigeria where young people lead, making the country better.
CNYAN’s message is clear: fund schools now to save kids and build a stronger North.
