“Nigeria Must Be Better!” — Adesanya-Davies Urges Youths to Lead Change
Princess Prof. Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies has been officially honoured with the title of National Grand Mentor of Nigerian Youths, outshining other nominees. The award was presented during a high-profile event organized by the National Youth Convergence (NYC), held on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at the Transcorp Hotel, Abuja. The gathering brought together youth leaders and dignitaries to celebrate the milestone.
Adesanya-Davies, a former 2019 Presidential candidate under the Mass Action Joint Alliance (MAJA) and member of the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP), delivered an inspiring message during the ceremony. She called on women and young people to remain relentless, assertive, and not settle for secondary roles in society.
She emphasized the need to empower youth, stating, “Nigerian youths play a vital role in nation-building. Empowering them strengthens the nation, while neglecting them risks its downfall.” She urged the young generation to take charge of their future and actively pursue meaningful change.
In her speech, she encouraged resilience and innovation among youth and women, emphasizing their central role in shaping Nigeria’s future. “Your ideas can drive progress,” she said, adding that youth engagement is essential for sustainable national development.
Earlier, Comrade Dogo Shagari, President of the National Youth Convergence (NYC), praised Princess Adesanya-Davies for her distinguished leadership and tireless service. He urged her to remain committed to uplifting the country, stressing the importance of mentorship and inclusive political participation, especially for women.
“This well-deserved award is a testament to her moral integrity and positive contributions to education, peacebuilding, and national unity,” Shagari noted. He called on Adesanya-Davies to see the award as a rallying point for intensified youth engagement, particularly ahead of the 2027 presidential elections.
In her acceptance remarks, Her Excellency, Bishop Prof. Amb. Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies expressed gratitude to the NYC Secretariat. Her core message centered on peace, unity, and progress. “Peace is my identity and strength,” she affirmed. Addressing women and youths, she declared, “Let peace and love shine through every word and action.” The youths responded with their resounding slogan: “Build the Youth, Build the Nation! Ignore the Youth, Destroy the Nation!”
The award plaque reads:
“This is to certify that Princess, Prof. Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies has been duly nominated and confirmed as the National Grand Mentor of Nigerian Youth. This nomination, conducted by the Nigerian Youths Convergence, was endorsed by Arewa Youth Council, Igbo Youth Association, Yoruba Youth Association, Niger Delta Youth Forum, and other global youth bodies. The selection took place in March 2025.”
The event was convened by Amb. Comrade Dogo Shagari and supported by NYC executives including Amb. Samuel Adegbola (National Secretary), Abdullahi Bilal (Head of Administration), Alhaji Abdullahi Adamu (Chief of Staff), Christabel Ramsey (Woman Leader), and Comrade Onwe Peter (National Publicity Secretary), among others.
Dignitaries in attendance included former General Secretary of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Barr. Daramola Joseph; Apostle John Kareem of Sovereign Jesus Ministry; retired police officer Rev. James Paul Adama; Dr. Ilesanmi Andrew; and Comrade Nuhu Agwom. Members of Princess Adesanya-Davies’ family and press representatives were also present.
Delivering a vote of thanks on behalf of the honoree, Dr. Victoria O. Solomon, her longtime student, praised Adesanya-Davies’ commitment to education, youth empowerment, and national development. She commended the NYC for recognizing her contributions and urged her to continue inspiring the next generation.
Earlier this year, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) also honoured Prof. Adesanya-Davies with a Certificate of Credence for her decades-long service in education and peace advocacy. The event was held on February 18, 2025, at the School of Postgraduate Studies, Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Port Harcourt.
NANS recognized her leadership and dedication as a lecturer for over four decades. “She is our own mother,” the student senators said, lauding her role as a former Country President of UN-POLAC and recently appointed International Peace Consul.
In a heartfelt note for Mother’s Day, May 11, 2025, the NYC described her as “our sweet mother” and commended her enduring contributions to youth development and national peace.
Reported by Matthew Alo
