In a show of appreciation and support, the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), in collaboration with the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) and the Indigenous and Resident Youths of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), held a solidarity rally in honour of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The rally celebrated the recent appointment of Ambassador Solomon Adodo as a member of the Board of the North Central Development Commission (NCDC), representing the FCT.

The coalition described the rally as a tribute to President Tinubu’s youth-inclusive policies and his commitment to appointing deserving young Nigerians to strategic positions in government—an effort they say aligns with his “Renewed Hope” agenda and campaign promises.

Ambassador Solomon Adodo, a long-time resident of the FCT and President of the NYCN, was recently appointed to the NCDC Board by President Tinubu. The rally, held on May 22, 2025, in Abuja, culminated in a press conference where youth leaders praised the President’s decision.

A joint statement issued by Comrade Igwe Ude-Umanta (Convener, Coalition of Civil Society Organisations), Comrade Anzaku Shedrack (National Secretary, NANS), and Comrade Mukhtar Akoshile (NYCN Vice President, North Central), hailed the appointment as a “finishing hat-trick” for President Tinubu.

“As civil society organizations and youth leaders, we are duty-bound to both critique and commend government policies. The appointment of Comrade Solomon Adodo demonstrates President Tinubu’s genuine commitment to youth inclusion and national development. This is a monumental move that must be appreciated,” the statement read.

They described Adodo as a patriotic leader, seasoned activist, and tireless advocate for national development. “This appointment gives a passionate and capable youth leader the opportunity to serve at a higher level. It reaffirms Mr. President’s belief in young people and will further enhance political support ahead of the 2027 general elections,” they added.

The coalition also expressed their unwavering support for the President:

“We are gathered here today to thank Mr. President for honouring the Nigerian youth, civil society, and the FCT community. We assure him of our continued solidarity and look forward to supporting his administration fully.”

Highlighting Adodo’s past contributions, the statement noted:

“He has consistently stood in defence of national interest and supported the Renewed Hope Agenda, even at difficult times. He leads with conviction, purpose, and integrity.”

The group also called attention to other youth appointments made by President Tinubu, acknowledging their contributions and the administration’s commitment to empowering young Nigerians.

In a firm warning to critics, the coalition condemned what they described as “ill-motivated protests” against Adodo’s appointment. They alleged that opposition elements, including a serving Senator and a Mandate Secretary in the FCT Administration, were behind recent protests.

“We are shocked by the audacity of those who never supported Mr. President now seeking to discredit this well-deserved appointment. Their actions threaten the peace of the FCT and should be addressed accordingly. Their protest on May 21, 2025, was not only insignificant but swiftly dispersed—an indication of their irrelevance,” the statement said.

They concluded by reaffirming their confidence in both President Tinubu and FCT Minister, Chief Ezenwo Nyesom Wike.

“Mr. President’s ongoing efforts in the FCT and his choice of Comrade Adodo have solidified his political support among genuine FCT residents. The youth stand firmly with him.”