Bature Emmanuel Dakweng has formally declared his intention to contest for the position of President of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), pledging to “change the narrative” by empowering, inspiring, and transforming Nigerian youth for national progress.

Dakweng made the declaration on Tuesday, October 22, 2025, during a press conference at the Azi Nyako Youth Centre, Jos, where he unveiled his manifesto and called on Nigerian youths to unite under a common vision.

“Together, we will reshape Nigeria’s destiny with the creativity, courage, and commitment that define our generation,” he said.

Outlining his vision, Dakweng said he aims to build “a united, empowered, and globally competitive Nigerian youth community that drives sustainable national development, innovation, and social justice.”

He explained that his mission is to champion youth empowerment through institutional development, skills acquisition, civic participation, and economic inclusion — ensuring every young Nigerian has a fair chance to thrive.

According to him, his leadership will be anchored on patriotism, integrity, inclusivity, innovation, and service — values he believes are vital to restoring credibility to youth leadership in Nigeria.

Speaking in support of his ambition, Dr. Gad Peter Shamaki, Global President of the University of Jos Alumni Association and Plateau State’s Open Government Partnership (OGP) point of contact, described Dakweng as a visionary leader with integrity and focus.

“We’re looking for purposeful and creative leadership. Bature is a gentleman, focused, and believes in the capacity of Nigerian youth. He deserves our support,” Dr. Shamaki said.

He urged stakeholders — including government officials and past NYCN leaders — to rally behind Dakweng, assuring that his leadership would bring renewed credibility and innovation to the youth body.

Also lending his voice, Comrade Taboku addressed the leadership crisis that has plagued the NYCN for over two decades, noting that the Council had been mired in factional disputes and multiple court cases.

He praised the current Minister of Youth for deregistering the NYCN under the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and establishing an interim management committee to restore order and prepare for fresh elections.

“This is an opportunity for a fresh start,” Taboku said. “The youth sector has been voiceless for too long. It’s time to elect genuine youth leadership under 35 years old, with vision and credibility — and Bature fits that description.”

Unveiling his key agenda, Dakweng promised to secure a permanent secretariat for the NYCN to replace the current rented office in Abuja, making it a national hub for youth coordination.

He further outlined plans for digital transformation, including the introduction of a digital membership database, the launch of the NYCN Job Connect platform, and the creation of a National Tech Challenge to fund youth-led innovations addressing social, environmental, and security issues.

Other priorities in his manifesto include:

• Strengthening partnerships with government, private sector, and international bodies;
• Promoting financial transparency through annual audits;
• Championing youth inclusion in politics, governance, and policy-making;
• Launching the One Nigeria, One Youth campaign to promote unity and interfaith understanding;
• Advocating gender equality and supporting programs for young women and persons with disabilities.

Describing his manifesto as “a social contract” between the NYCN and millions of Nigerian youths, Dakweng concluded:
“Our commitment is clear — to empower, inspire, and transform the Nigerian youth for a better, stronger, and more prosperous nation.”

The declaration drew youth leaders, civil society representatives, and members of the University of Jos Alumni Association, who pledged their full support for Dakweng’s candidacy ahead of the forthcoming NYCN national election.