Category Youth

RYNI News | Blessing Isiuwa
31 July 2025

In an unprecedented policy shift aimed at tackling Nigeria’s deepening substance abuse crisis among youth, the Federal Government has announced mandatory drug integrity testing for students in tertiary institutions nationwide.

Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, made this declaration on Wednesday following a strategic meeting in Abuja with the Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brigadier General Buba Marwa (retd). The move, he said, is both urgent and non-negotiable.

“We do not have a choice,” Alausa asserted. “We’re starting with drug tests for all new and returning students in our tertiary institutions—and we will follow through with random testing as well.”

The measure is part of a wider three-pronged strategy proposed by the NDLEA to combat the alarming rise in youth drug use: a complete overhaul of drug education in school curricula, the introduction of dedicated anti-drug programmes in secondary schools, and the rollout of nationwide drug testing policies for campuses.

Marwa, a relentless voice in Nigeria’s war on narcotics, warned that substance abuse has become a national emergency, directly fueling terrorism, kidnapping, and other violent crimes. “We are fighting for the souls of our children,” he said. “Without drugs, many criminal activities simply wouldn’t happen.”

Citing the NDLEA’s arrest of over 40,000 drug offenders and seizure of more than 5,500 metric tonnes of narcotics in just two years, Marwa emphasized the gravity of the threat. “This is not just about discipline—this is about national survival,” he declared.

Dr. Alausa echoed the concern, painting a bleak picture of how drug use is derailing Nigeria’s youth. “When our students are ensnared by drugs, their education suffers,” he said. “It blunts their critical thinking, erodes their judgment, and renders them unemployable. That’s the beginning of a dangerous cycle.”

In a bold structural response, the minister announced the creation of a Substance Use Prevention Unit within the Ministry of Education. He also committed to revising the secondary school curriculum to include updated drug education content, starting immediately.

Alausa further revealed plans to partner with the Universal Basic Education Commission and TETFund to strengthen the NDLEA’s academy in Jos, Plateau State, and to cascade preventive education down to the primary level.

“This is a national duty,” he concluded. “We must protect our youth from the slow poison of drugs. Education must lead the charge.”

If implemented effectively, the initiative could mark a turning point in Nigeria’s decades-long battle against youth substance abuse, placing schools at the forefront of prevention and early intervention.

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RYNI News : By Omotayo Stephen . O
29 July 2025

In a symphony of joy, pride, and tradition, Mother of the Redeemer Catholic Secondary School (MORCASS) celebrated the graduation of its Class of 2025 with a vibrant ceremony that beautifully blended spiritual grace, academic excellence, and youthful talent. Held amidst cheers from parents, teachers, and alumni, the event was a radiant showcase of the school’s unyielding commitment to nurturing students who embody knowledge, faith, and morals.

The Principal’s Benediction: A Farewell with Faith

Rev. Fr. Harrison Egwunu, the esteemed Principal of MORCASS, opened the ceremony with warm and heartfelt words:

“You are not merely leaving this school; you are entering a world that desperately needs your values. Go forth with courage, integrity, and faith. The world awaits the light you’ve been trained to shine.” His prayerful message set the tone for an occasion steeped in gratitude and hope.

Chairperson of the Parent-Student Association (PSA), Mrs. Ochei, offered her heartfelt congratulations to both students and parents, applauding their resilience and commitment to excellence.

“The future is in good hands because you, our children, have been equipped for greatness. Stay grounded and keep aiming higher,” she encouraged.

Adding a powerful alumni voice, Mr. Uzum Emmanuel, President of the Mother of the Redeemer Catholic Old Students Association (MORCOSA), welcomed the graduates into the alumni community.

“You’re no longer just students — you’re stewards of the MORCASS legacy. Wear it with pride, carry it with honour,” he declared, as he officially inducted the Class of 2025 into MORCOSA.

Celebrating Excellence: A Salute to Academic Giants

The highlight of the event was the presentation of prestigious academic awards by the Resourceful Youth Network Initiative (RYNI). Represented by Mr. Uzum Emmanuel on behalf of RYNI’s founder and CEO, Dr. Lawson Obazenu, the awards were presented to celebrate academic distinction and inspire continued excellence beyond the school walls.

The Best Graduating Student Award went to the brilliant Sakpaide Akpevweoghene, a shining star who captivated the school community with both her intellect and integrity.

Other awards were given to top-performing students in Science and Arts, across SS1 to SS3. The overall best science student prize was won by Sakpaide Akpevweoghene , while the overall best Art student prize was won by Ughe Esther Oseluesmhen. Seven remarkable scholars who scored 300+ in their UTME received ₦70,000 cash prizes, a testament to the school’s culture of academic distinction.
The awards were a symbolic passing of the torch — urging the students to carry the spirit of academic discipline and hard work into their future endeavors.

Dr. Obazenu, through his message, encouraged the graduates to hold fast to the values and drive for excellence that MORCASS instilled in them.

“These awards are not the end of your journey, but a challenge to rise even higher,” he said.

A Joyous Celebration of Talent and Transition

As the cake was cut, certificates handed out, and cultural dances graced the stage, the celebration transformed into a moment of unforgettable memories. Talented students showcased skills in music, dance, tailoring, makeup, and other vocations — a testament to the holistic education MORCASS provides.

And So They Rise…

With applause, and joy in their hearts, the MORCASS Class of 2025 stepped into the world — not just as graduates, but as changemakers. Rev. Fr. Egwunu offered a prayer of protection and guidance, sending forth the Class of 2025 with wings strengthened by wisdom.

From this sacred ground of learning, they soar… ready to conquer, to create, and to shine.

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RYNI News : By Omotayo Stephen . O
28 July 2025

In an unprecedented celebration of sporting excellence, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has catapulted Nigeria’s Super Falcons into the annals of national pride—bestowing upon each member of the championship-winning squad the coveted Order of the Niger (OON) and a jaw-dropping $100,000 in cash, alongside ₦10 million from the Nigerian Governors Forum.

The honors come in the wake of the Falcons’ historic comeback victory over Morocco at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final—a nail-biting 3–2 triumph that not only sealed Nigeria’s 10th continental title but reignited a nation’s belief in the unyielding power of perseverance.

In a symbolic move that blends valor with reward, Tinubu described the Falcons as “ambassadors of the Nigerian spirit,” lauding their determination and drive as “nothing short of heroic.” The President’s commendation, delivered through spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, celebrated the team’s “unbreakable resolve,” singling them out as “living proof that when Nigerians unite in purpose, victory is inevitable.”

Esther Okoronkwo dazzled as the game’s standout performer—breaking the Moroccan wall with a blistering strike and an assist that paved the way for Jennifer Echegini’s thunderous winner, a half-volley that silenced the Rabat crowd and echoed across Africa.

The nation’s top brass took note.

In a rare show of cross-government solidarity, the Nigerian Governors Forum followed the President’s lead by awarding an additional ₦10 million per player, solidifying the moment as not just a sports victory, but a national movement of gratitude.

Sources at the State House confirm that the team will soon be hosted in Abuja, where President Tinubu will formally confer the OON medals in what promises to be a rousing ceremony of honor, joy, and nationwide celebration.

This moment of glory also brings a strategic pivot: Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to investing in sports as a vehicle for national unity, youth empowerment, and economic growth. With renewed pledges to reform local leagues and attract private sector investment, the Falcons’ triumph may serve as the spark that ignites a golden era for Nigerian sports.

In a country often beleaguered by headlines of hardship, the Super Falcons have handed Nigeria something rare—a victory that’s not just on the pitch, but in the soul of a nation.

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RYNI Media: By Omotayo Stephen . O
23 July 2025

In a heart-pounding semi-final clash that will forever echo in the annals of Nigerian football, Michelle Alozie emerged as an unlikely heroine, delivering a 94th-minute stunner that shattered South African hearts and catapulted the Super Falcons into the final of the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

The drama began with Rasheedat Ajibade’s clinical penalty just before halftime, a result of a costly handball by South Africa’s Bambanani Mbane. Nigeria went into the break with a slender lead, only for Linda Motlhalo to equalize for Banyana Banyana from the spot midway through the second half, following a foul by Osinachi Ohale.

As the clock ticked into stoppage time, extra time seemed inevitable—until Alozie, a defender for Houston Dash, launched a speculative long-range ball into the South African box. It seemed harmless. But the ball took on a life of its own, skipping past defenders and goalkeeper Andile Dlamini before nestling in the net. A stunned silence from the South Africans turned into raucous celebration for Nigeria. The Super Falcons had done it—2-1.

For Alozie, this wasn’t just a goal—it was her first-ever strike at a WAFCON tournament, and what a way to open her account. The timing, the execution, and the impact turned an ordinary play into a moment of legend.

Despite the heartbreak of Gabriela Salgado’s injury late in the game, Nigeria’s grit never wavered. The Falcons stood tall, weathering pressure and capitalizing on a rare late opening to seal one of their most dramatic wins in recent memory.

Now, with a record-extending 10th WAFCON title within reach, the Super Falcons look ahead to Saturday’s final in Rabat, where they will face either host Morocco or regional rivals Ghana.

Why This Moment Matters:

Alozie’s Breakout Moment: Her first WAFCON goal is already iconic.

Clutch Performance: Scored in the dying seconds to eliminate the reigning champions.

Defining Legacy: A moment that will be replayed in African football history for years.

The Falcons are flying high—and with Alozie’s magical strike, their wings look stronger than ever.

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By RYNI Media | June 19, 2025

@DoublePrince

In a significant boost for youth empowerment and technical development in Nigeria, the Resourceful Youth Network Initiative (RYNI), a leading non-governmental organisation dedicated to youth capacity building, has commended the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) for approving the Start Innovation Hub in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, as a certified Skills Training Centre.

This landmark approval, conveyed in a letter signed by Engr. S. M. Yusuf, Director of Vocational, Technical, and Skills Development at NBTE, on behalf of the Executive Secretary, Prof. Idris Muhammad Bugaje, marks a transformative step toward expanding access to formal technical education in the South-South region of Nigeria.

According to the NBTE, the hub has been officially authorised to provide training in two high-demand disciplines: Computer Hardware Repair and Maintenance and Social Media Communications. These programmes, chosen for their relevance in today’s digital economy, will empower young people with practical, industry-relevant skills needed to thrive in the tech-driven job market.

Under the new arrangement, a recognised Sectoral Awarding Body will oversee the assessment of trainees, ensuring rigorous quality assurance standards. Upon successful completion, trainees will receive nationally recognised certificates issued by the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB), endorsed by the Computer Professionals Registration Council of Nigeria (CPN). This certification confers formal recognition and enhances employability across a broad spectrum of technology-driven fields.

“I am directed to inform you that the Executive Secretary has approved the Centre to operate as a Skills Training Centre,” the letter stated. “Please accept my congratulations on behalf of the Executive Secretary.”

The National Board for Technical Education, Nigeria’s apex regulatory body for technical and vocational education and training (TVET), continues to play a pivotal role in shaping a workforce that is not only employable but equipped for innovation and entrepreneurship.

In reaction to this development, RYNI lauded the NBTE for its strategic foresight in bridging the skills gap and accelerating human capital development. Speaking through a statement released in Uyo, RYNI described the approval as “a bold endorsement of the power of youth-led innovation and a testament to the NBTE’s commitment to decentralising access to technical education.”

“This is more than an administrative greenlight—it’s a gateway for thousands of young Nigerians to transform their passion into profession,” the statement noted. “We commend the NBTE for this visionary move, and we congratulate the leadership of Start Innovation Hub for this well-deserved recognition.

”Start Innovation Hub, a renowned tech incubator in Akwa Ibom, has long been at the forefront of digital inclusion and youth upskilling. The new NBTE certification underscores its growing role in shaping Nigeria’s digital future, particularly through practical training that aligns with global standards.

As Nigeria continues to grapple with youth unemployment and underemployment, initiatives like this stand out as actionable solutions with long-term impact. By integrating formal technical certification into grassroots innovation spaces, the NBTE is laying the groundwork for a generation of job creators rather than job seekers.

This development is poised to catalyse a ripple effect across Nigeria’s youth empowerment ecosystem, inspiring more collaborations between government bodies, private sector actors, and non-governmental organisations like RYNI to deliver on the promise of inclusive, skills-based education.

With the approval of the Skills Training Centre in Uyo, Akwa Ibom joins the ranks of forward-thinking states investing in the future of work. As RYNI aptly puts it, “This is a win for the youth, a win for development, and a win for Nigeria.”

© RYNI Media@DoublePrince

https://ryniconnect.blogspot.com/2025/06/japa-or-build-youths-across-continents.html