Youth Model African Union hosts 4th Extraordinary Summit in Abuja

November 29, 2024

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Youth Model African Union hosts 4th Extraordinary Summit in Abuja

The Youth Model African Union (YMAU) hold its 4th Extraordinary Summit on November 28, 2024, at the Institute of Peace and Conflict Resolution, gathering young leaders and diplomats from across Africa to discuss the continent’s journey towards unity, peace, and sustainable growth.

With the theme, “A Peaceful and Prosperous Africa Based on Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Development,” the summit provided a platform for participants to simulate the proceedings of the African Union (AU), including plenaries, committee meetings, and extraordinary sessions.

The initiative aimed to equip young Africans with skills in diplomacy, leadership, lobbying, and international relations, grooming them to become transformational leaders and contributors to Africa’s development.

The event was chaired by YMAU President Igweshi Augustine, supported by a dynamic leadership team that included Chairperson Bukola Taiwo, Vice Chair of the AU Peace and Security Council Olabode Afurewaju, and Rapporteur Muhammad Mubarak. Their collective efforts ensured the smooth execution of the summit’s agenda.

In his opening address, Igweshi Augustine warmly welcomed participants and delegates, stressing the importance of youth involvement in shaping Africa’s future.

He called on attendees to embrace innovative leadership and tackle pressing challenges facing the continent.

Prominent figures who delivered inspiring speeches at the event includes; Dr. Joseph Ochugwu, represented by Dr. Olalekan Babatunde, lauded the YMAU for its role in nurturing Africa’s next generation of leaders. Ayanda Ngwane, Editor-in-Chief of Neptune Prime and Managing Director for West and Central Africa, BRICS Africa channel, expressed her commitment to supporting youth initiatives. Ruben Cambrera Andrade, a representative from the Moroccan Embassy, highlighted the significance of inclusive policies, cross-border collaboration, and youth engagement in peacebuilding and sustainable development.

Topias Tamminen, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Finland, emphasized that “On behalf of the Embassy of Finland, I am honored to extend our warmest greetings to the 4th International Youth Summit.

We deeply value the role of young people in shaping the future and are committed to empowering and supporting their growth. This summit serves as a vital platform for collaboration, innovation, and addressing global challenges.

The Embassy remains dedicated to promoting youth development, education, and innovation, and we pledge our full support to the success of this event”.

Mrs. Ayanda Ngwane, the Editor-in-Chief of Neptune Prime, commended the Ministry of Youth and Development for supporting this monumental summit. She stated: “It is a privilege and an honor to partner with Neptune Prime in its unwavering commitment to fostering development, promoting diplomacy, and nurturing the leaders of tomorrow. This initiative marks a significant milestone in empowering individuals, transforming lives, and giving a voice to the voiceless. Together, we are shaping a brighter and more inclusive future.”

The summit included simulated committee sessions that addressed key issues on the African Union’s agenda, such as conflict resolution, climate change, youth empowerment, and economic integration. Delegates engaged in debates, negotiations, and policy development, reflecting the real-life workings of the AU and proposing actionable solutions for Africa’s challenges.

Since its inception, the Youth Model African Union has emerged as a transformative platform for aspiring young African leaders.

The 4th Extraordinary Summit not only offered a unique educational experience but also fostered meaningful connections and collaborations among the continent’s future leaders, reinforcing their commitment to a peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous Africa.

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