By Esther Onyegbula

The Diaspora arm of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, NYCN, has formally adopted its 2026 Constitution, strengthening its mandate as the umbrella body and statutory mouthpiece for Nigerian youths and youth organisations outside the country.

The new constitutional framework, enacted on February 23, 2026, in London, is designed to entrench transparency, accountability and structured global coordination of Nigerian youths in the Diaspora.
NYCN Diaspora President, Amb. Collins Osazee Idahosa, said the development marks a significant milestone in consolidating the Council’s role in advocating for the rights and interests of Nigerian youths abroad, while promoting inclusive participation in Nigeria’s governance process.

According to him, the Council remains committed to ensuring that Nigerian youths in the Diaspora realise their full potential through advocacy, consular and integration guidance, social enlightenment, mobilization and strategic partnerships.

Operating under the motto, “Build the Youth, Build the Nation,” the Council, he said, will leverage the new constitution to deepen youth development initiatives on a global scale.
The 2026 Constitution establishes a comprehensive governance structure with clearly defined organs to drive its international operations.

At the apex is the Diaspora Youth Congress, designated as the highest decision-making organ of the Council. The framework also provides for a Diaspora Board of Trustees, empowered to function as the internal conscience and legal supervisory body of the organisation.
In addition, a Diaspora Advisory Council has been constituted to provide expert guidance, mentorship and policy oversight, while the Diaspora Executive Council will serve as the administrative and executive authority responsible for implementing and interpreting the Council’s global vision.

Speaking on the significance of the new constitutional order, Idahosa said: “As we operationalize this new Constitution, our focus remains squarely on our vision, to empower Nigerian youth in the Diaspora toward global impact, national pride and individual excellence.”

Meanwhile, the Council has announced the institution of “Nigeria Diaspora Youth Day,” slated for August 22, 2026, in London.
The event will also serve as the NYCN’s 62nd Anniversary Symposium and is expected to attract young Nigerian leaders, professionals and stakeholders from across the globe.

According to the Council, the London gathering follows the success of its 61st anniversary celebration held in Madrid, Spain, and will provide a platform to deliberate on youth empowerment, cultural identity and global networking opportunities.
The NYCN Diaspora has called on Nigerian youths, affiliated organisations and international partners to participate in the August event, describing it as a landmark celebration of youth leadership and Diaspora engagement.