Abuja: The Federal Government has welcomed the appointment of Chief Obinna Nwaka as Nigeria’s Focal Person for the Nigeria-South Africa Youth Fellowship/Exchange Programme. Nwaka, who is the Director-General of the Committee of Youth on Mobilisation and Sensitisation (CYMS), has been entrusted with this role to foster youth engagement and enhance regional cooperation between Nigeria and South Africa.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the appointment was announced by the Universal Greening Organisation (UGO) through a statement signed by its Director of International Relations, Omolemo Somolekae. The appointment, which took effect from April 1, 2026, underscores Nwaka’s extensive experience in youth mobilisation, leadership development, and international engagement. The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, emphasized that this development aligns with the government’s commitment to expanding platforms for youth participation in continental initiatives.
In a statement released by Hosea Parah, Media and Publicity Officer of CYMS Nigeria, the minister expressed confidence that the appointment would significantly enhance Nigeria’s contribution to the programme. Olawande described the appointment as a strategic move to fortify Nigeria’s youth diplomacy and deepen regional cooperation with South Africa. He affirmed the government’s dedication to ensuring that young Nigerians benefit from meaningful exchange programmes that build leadership capacity, innovation, and regional collaboration.
Olawande further noted that the appointment would provide Nigerian youths with opportunities to engage at the continental level, gaining exposure to skills development, policy dialogue, and cross-border cooperation. The programme is expected to equip young people with practical experience in climate action, sustainable development, and regional partnership building.
Nwaka, in his new role, will be responsible for coordinating Nigeria’s participation, leading delegations, and serving as the liaison between UGO and Nigerian institutions. His duties will also include overseeing the implementation of the programme and coordinating the selection of participants.
NAN reports that Nwaka has previously led initiatives aimed at promoting youth participation in governance, national development, and empowerment programmes. As the focal person, Nwaka will lead selected Nigerian youth to South Africa for a 90-day training programme, which includes a seven-day in-country visit to South Africa. The Nigeria-South Africa Exchange Fellowship Programme is designed to strengthen bilateral relations and equip young leaders with skills in climate action, sustainable development, and regional cooperation. The programme will involve exchange visits, joint projects, and policy engagement between participants from both countries.