The Cross River State Commissioner for Youth Development, Barr. Ijom-Ukam, has reaffirmed that the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) remains the only youth umbrella organization recognized by both the state and federal governments.
Speaking at a news conference in Calabar, the Commissioner addressed the recent legal and administrative ambiguities surrounding youth leadership in the state, emphasizing that any contrary speculations regarding the Council’s status are “null and void.”
Barr. Ijom-Ukam, a seasoned lawyer, clarified that according to official records, the NYCN maintains its status as a registered body. He noted that despite recent debates, no documentation exists to his knowledge that alters the Council’s legal standing.
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“As the Ministry vested with the responsibility of overseeing the youth constituency, we are the supervising government body,” Ijom-Ukam stated. “NYCN is the only body recognized by law and government.”
The Commissioner acknowledged that social media has recently been “awash” with debates regarding which association holds the mandate to represent Cross River youth. To resolve this, the Ministry held administrative meetings with leaders from both the NYCN and the National Youth Council (NYC) to provide legal guidance.
“That matter has been laid to rest administratively,” the Commissioner declared. “We were able to put the facts before the various youth bodies. Every organization, before it can operate, must be registered with the Cross River State Ministry of Youth and further affiliate with the NYCN for harmonious and coordinated leadership.”
Drawing a comparison to religious regulation, Barr. Ijom-Ukam explained that just as the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) coordinates church activities nationwide, the NYCN is the official body meant to coordinate all youth groups under the Ministry’s close supervision.
Addressing rumors regarding the deregistration of the NYCN, the Commissioner stated that “No official directives have been given to the Cross River State Government regarding deregistration. The State Government is working directly with the NYCN to deliver youth-inclusive governance.”
Reiterating the government’s position, the Commissioner warned that no youth group can legally exist outside this framework without due registration. He concluded by ordering that the status quo ante be maintained and urged all stakeholders to support the NYCN to ensure its success in representing the interests of the state’s youth.
