IYD 2022: Kogi Dep Gov, Onoja, Others, Bag African Youth Role Model Prize »

The Deputy Governor of Kogi State, Chief Dr Edward Onoja, on Friday, bagged the 2022 African Youth Role Model Prize 2022 for his contributions to Youth Empowerment and development over the years.

Chief Onoja, represented by the State Deputy Chief of Staff, Hon. Sunday Faleke received the prestigious Award at the African Youth Resource Centre’s National Youth Stakeholders Forum held at Rockview Hotel Royale in Abuja.

Other recipients of various Awards included; Hajia Imaan Sulaiman Ibrahim, the Honourable Federal Commissioner, National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons, and Chief Mike Duru Ajiogu, the Managing Director of Citygate Homes Ltd.

Earlier, Director General of the Centre, Ben Duntoye, said the Awardees were persons of proven integrity, who have excelled tremendously in their chosen careers while distinguishing themselves as role models to the young people of Africa, especially at this critical period where there is a dearth of credible positive role models and mentors to provide quality leadership orientation to the Youth.

In receiving his plaque, Chief Onoja appreciated the AYRC, saying it was a greater honor to be placed in such distinguished ranks as those of the past and current Awardees, who, according to him, are people of proven integrity and impact.

“This Award is therefore a testimony and confirmation that Kogi State is on the right path to prosperity. The future we envisage can only be made possible with the full participation of the youths.

“On this note, I dedicate this prestigious Award to the Governor of Kogi State and the ever-supportive Youths of my dear State.

“I want to thank you once again for the honor. We will continue to do more,” he said.

The glamorous event themed: “Positive Youth Engagement, towards Peaceful General Elections in Nigeria,” was in commemoration of the 2022 Edition of the International Youth Day.