NYCN Governor, Idahosa Urges Diaspora Youths to Seize Global Market Opportunities

…Pledges to Collaborate with The Global Clusters

Ambassador Collins Idahosa, Governor of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), European Chapter, has urged Nigerian youths in the diaspora to transcend limitations and seize the abundant opportunities available in global markets through innovation and entrepreneurship.

He highlighted that such initiatives would facilitate international networking, enabling young Nigerians to establish businesses, create jobs, and forge partnerships that stimulate economic growth and technological advancement in Nigeria.

In his address titled “Rise Up, Nigerian Youths,” Idahosa asserted that the future of Nigeria lies in the hands of its youth, both at home and abroad.

Speaking at a youth forum on Monday, themed “Innovation and Entrepreneurship Opportunities for Nigerian Youth in the Diaspora,” he urged Nigerian youths overseas to capitalise on global opportunities to reshape both their nation and the wider community.

“Innovation and entrepreneurship offer limitless prospects for Nigerian youths in the diaspora to contribute significantly to their home country and the global arena.

“With their exposure to diverse cultures, advanced technologies, and innovative business models, diasporan youths are uniquely positioned to drive innovation across various sectors,” he stated.

He emphasised the importance of the diaspora, describing it as an extraordinary asset. In 2023 alone, Nigerian remittances surpassed $20 billion.

“By harnessing their international networks, they can establish businesses, create jobs, and foster partnerships that promote economic growth and technological progress in Nigeria,” he added.

He further pointed out that the growing availability of digital platforms and the rise of global collaboration facilitate the ability of Nigerian youths abroad to provide innovative solutions to local challenges, particularly in technology, healthcare, agriculture, and education.

“By tapping into global markets and leveraging their acquired skills and knowledge, they can play a pivotal role in transforming Nigeria’s economy. Additionally, by fostering innovation and creating sustainable business models, diaspora youths can actively contribute to their states’ development agendas.”

He reiterated his call for the establishment of State Diaspora Agencies to create formal frameworks for engagement between states and their citizens abroad.
He said states such as Edo and Kwara have already made progress with dedicated agencies, and he urged others to build upon these efforts for sustainable diaspora engagement that ensures continuity, maximises investments, and drives development.

Idahosa expressed his honour at being invited to the prestigious World Youth Summit 2025 in Thailand, scheduled for July 14–18, 2025, at the United Nations venue in Bangkok.

He pledged to continue advocating for Nigerian youth worldwide, with the support of Ambassador Dr. Adekunle Badmus, Global President of The Global Clusters.

He noted that The Global Clusters is a groundbreaking international network committed to youth development, innovation, and global impact, making it a strategic ally in shaping the future of African youths both at home and abroad.

Notably, Dr. Badmus also serves as Nigeria’s ambassador to the National Youth Council of Nigeria in Turkey. Idahosa aims to leverage this opportunity to further champion the values and goals of the National Youth Council of Nigeria.

Al Humphrey Onyanabo Launches The Best of Nigeria Magazine: A Digital Celebration of Icons, Innovators, and Nation Builders

Veteran society writer Al Humphrey Onyanabo has launched a powerful new publication — The Best of Nigeria magazine — a bold, digital-first magazine dedicated to celebrating the individuals driving Nigeria’s progress across politics, business, faith, sports, entertainment, and philanthropy.

A seasoned chronicler of Nigeria’s elite and cultural vanguards, Onyanabo( he is also publisher of the news platform,(www.nigeria360.com.ng) brings his signature storytelling style to this exciting platform, presenting compelling narratives of excellence, legacy, and resilience. The publication seeks to inform, inspire, and elevate the national conversation by spotlighting those who are shaping the soul and future of Nigeria.

Leading with Leadership: H.E. Senator Barau I. Jubrin
Front and center in the maiden May edition is a powerful profile of H.E. Senator Barau I. Jubrin, Deputy Senate President — described as “the silent power broker” — whose strategic influence is quietly shaping Nigeria’s political architecture. This feature explores his disciplined leadership style, legislative impact, and national relevance.

A Vision Rooted in National Pride
According to Onyanabo, “The Best of Nigeria isn’t just a magazine — it’s a platform of pride and purpose. We are shining a light on those who reflect the strength, brilliance, and ambition of our people, at home and abroad.”

Now available in digital format, the magazine will soon transition into print editions, allowing for broader circulation and deeper engagement with readers across Nigeria and the diaspora.

Inside the May Edition,
The second edition is packed with thought-provoking features and powerful tributes, including:

Dr. Leemon Ikpea, Chief executive officer of The Lee Engineering Group: From humble beginnings to 35 years of excellence in oil and gas.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu @ 73: A close look at leadership, reforms, and the future.

Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, (CON), CEO, SIFAX GROUP: Building a business empire on vision and integrity

Capt. Chris Najomo: Piloting a new chapter for Nigerian aviation

Pastor E.A. Adeboye @ 83: The humble visionary behind RCCG’s global expansion

Chief Bishop Emma Okonkwo: A celebrated legacy of enterprise and philanthropy

H.E. Goodluck Jonathan: From barefoot boy to global peace laureate

Victor Osimhen: From the streets of Lagos to global football stardom

Uzor Arukwe: Nollywood’s versatile star shining in Love In Every Word

Mr. Jim Ovia: A tribute to the godfather of modern Nigerian banking and founder of Zenith Bank

Mr. Pascal Dozie: Honoring the legacy of the visionary founder of Diamond Bank

And many more inspiring stories of Nigerians breaking boundaries around the world.

With each edition, The Best of Nigeria will continue to uncover and celebrate the champions of our society — the quiet heroes, the headline-makers, and the legacy-builders.

Beyond celebrating outstanding individuals, The Best of Nigeria magazine is also committed to showcasing the rich tapestry of Nigeria’s tourism, culture, and creative economy to a global audience. From breathtaking destinations like the Obudu Mountain Resort and Erin Ijesha Waterfalls to historical gems like the Benin Bronzes and the Nok Terracotta, the magazine will highlight the beauty, diversity, and heritage that make Nigeria a top destination for cultural exploration and adventure.

In addition, The Best of Nigeria will serve as a gateway to the country’s thriving creative and economic sectors — spotlighting Nollywood’s global rise, the infectious pulse of Afrobeats, the elegance of Nigerian fashion, and the power of local art. It will also promote viable investment opportunities across real estate, agriculture, tech, and tourism, positioning Nigeria not only as a cultural powerhouse but as a land of innovation, enterprise, and limitless potential.

The journey to tell Nigeria’s most inspiring stories has begun. And this is only the beginning.

VANGUARD AWARDS OLAKUNLE WILLIAMS THE ENERGY ICON OF THE YEAR: CELEBRATING THE TIGER OF THE ENERGY SECTOR IN AFRICA

BY CHINEDU NSOFOR

Olakunle Williams, the Chief Executive Officer of Tetracore Energy Group, has been honored with the prestigious Vanguard Energy Icon Award 2025. This accolade recognizes his outstanding contributions to the African energy sector and his visionary leadership in driving innovation and sustainable growth.

A Visionary Leader Transforming Africa’s Energy Landscape

Under Williams’ guidance, Tetracore Energy has emerged as a leading energy solution provider, boasting a natural gas portfolio exceeding 75 million standard cubic feet per day (MMScfd) for industrial use and energizing over 300 megawatts (MW) of power generation in Nigeria. His strategic focus on clean and cost-effective energy solutions aligns with Africa’s aspirations for a sustainable future, positioning him as a pivotal figure in the continent’s energy narrative.

Pioneering Gas Innovation and Strategic Collaborations

Williams’ commitment to innovation is exemplified by Tetracore’s recent collaboration with Dangote Cement to supply up to 400,000 standard cubic meters per day of Auto Compressed Natural Gas (Auto-CNG) for its logistics operations. This partnership marks a significant step towards achieving the goals of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Presidential CNG Initiative (Pi-CNG), highlighting Williams’ role in advancing Nigeria’s energy transition.

Accolades Reflecting Excellence

Olakunle Williams’ remarkable leadership, visionary drive, and consistent dedication to transforming Africa’s energy landscape have earned him several prestigious accolades both locally and internationally. In 2022, he was honoured with the Nigeria Domestic Gas Ambassador Award by the Nigeria Gas Association in recognition of Tetracore’s outstanding commitment to deepening domestic gas utilization across Nigeria. This was closely followed in 2023 by the Innovative Gas Company of the Year Award presented by the Nigeria Gas Investment Forum, celebrating Tetracore’s pioneering contributions to innovation within the gas industry. His transformative leadership qualities were further acknowledged in 2021 when he received the Energy Personality Leadership Prize for African Leadership Excellence, highlighting his role in reshaping the African energy sector. Williams’ growing influence was also solidified when the African Energy Chamber listed him among the 25 Energy Personalities to Watch in 2022, positioning him as one of the most dynamic leaders shaping Africa’s energy future. In 2023, The Guardian Nigeria further amplified his reputation by featuring him among Nigeria’s 50 Most Inspiring and Definitive Top CEOs in its Annual CEO Series. His exceptional contributions to leadership and corporate governance earned him the Professional Doctorate and Corporate Leadership Excellence Award in 2025, conferred by the Chartered Institute of Public Resources Management and Politics (Ghana). In the same year, he bagged the Innovative Sustainable Energy Provider of the Year Award at the Nigerian Business Leadership Awards (NBLA), organised by BusinessDay, for his strategic and sustainable energy solutions. Notably, Williams’ continental impact was recognized with the CHOISEUL 100 Africa’s Economic Leaders Award, celebrating his outstanding role in shaping Africa’s economic and energy landscape and affirming his position as a key figure in Africa’s development story.

An Illustrious Career Dedicated to Energy Advancement

With over 16 years of experience across the natural gas and power value chains, Williams’ career includes roles such as Consultant on the Energy desk at Deloitte Nigeria and leading Commercial Advisor at the Nigerian Gas Company Limited. His academic credentials include a Master of Business Administration from the University of Bradford School of Management (UK), and he is a Project Management Professional, Chartered Management Accountant, and Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants. Williams is also a member of several professional bodies, including the International Bar Association (IBA), Chartered Institute of Taxation (CITN), and the Institute of Arbitrators (UK).

Driving Sustainable Energy Solutions

Tetracore Energy, under Williams’ leadership, has significantly expanded its natural gas portfolio in alignment with Nigeria’s ‘Decade of Gas’ initiative and the country’s Energy Transition Plan (ETP). The company’s focus on projects that impact industrialization and energy access includes a long-term contract to supply up to 40 MMScf/d of gas to the Rongtai Industrial Park in Edo State and 60 MMScf/d of natural gas to the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), supporting 34% of electricity generation to the Nigerian grid.

A Legacy of Excellence

Olakunle Williams’ recognition as the Vanguard Energy Icon 2025 is a testament to his unwavering dedication to excellence, innovation, and sustainable development in Africa’s energy sector. His recognition as a CHOISEUL 100 Africa’s Economic Leader and BusinessDay’s Innovative Sustainable Energy Provider of the Year further solidify his position as one of Africa’s most influential figures in the sector. Williams’ leadership continues to inspire and drive progress, earning him a reputation as the “Tiger of the Energy Sector” in Africa. The Vanguard Recognition/Vanguard Award further solidifies his legacy as a transformative and visionary force in shaping Africa’s energy future.