...As the monarch commends group’s promotion of national unity, social justice
By Ikemefuna Ikem
A Nigerian youth-led movement, the National Youth Alliance (NYA), has named His Royal Majesty, Igwe Samuel Ikechukwu Asadu (Igwe Ogadagidi), as its National Grand Patron.
The President of NYA, Ambassador Aliyu Bin Abbas, announced this during a visit to the revered monarch in his palace, Edem-Ani Ogwugwu Ancient Kingdom, Nsukka Local Government Area, Enugu State at the weekend, where he presented an award plaque to the monarch.
Abbas described the traditional ruler who is also the Chairman, Enugu State Council of Traditional Rulers, and the immediate past Chairman South East Council of Traditional Rulers, as a selfless and visionary leader who according to him is committed to the advancement of humanity.
"It is with profound honour, deep reverence, and a resounding sense of pride that we announce a historic and noble milestone in the life of our great movement.
"HRM Igwe Samuel Ikechukwu Asadu, the revered Igwe of the ancient and illustrious Edem-Ani Kingdom, has been officially and ceremoniously inducted as the Grand Patron of the National Youth Alliance.
"This prestigious elevation is not merely a title, it is a recognition of a monarch whose life embodies selfless service, visionary leadership, and an unwavering commitment to the advancement of humanity. Igwe Asadu stands as a towering symbol of integrity, compassion, and progressive traditional authority, having dedicated his personal resources and royal influence to the upliftment of his people and the empowerment of future generations," the NYA said.
Abbas, noted that the monarch would now assume the role of guiding light to millions of NYA, stressing that the moment marks the alliance between traditional institutions and the emerging generation.
"As our Grand Patron, His Royal Majesty assumes a sacred and strategic role as a guiding light to the millions of young people under the banner of the NYA. His wisdom shall fortify our vision, his counsel shall sharpen our resolve, and his royal presence shall continue to inspire a new era of disciplined, purpose-driven, and patriotic youth leadership across Nigeria and beyond.
"This moment marks the strengthening of a powerful alliance between traditional institutions and the emerging generation a fusion of heritage and hope, of legacy and leadership. Under the royal guidance of His Majesty, the NYA is poised to deepen its impact, expand its reach, and accelerate its mission of raising a generation that is bold, responsible, and committed to nation-building.
"We celebrate this noble union with gratitude and great expectation, confident that the reign of His Royal Majesty as Grand Patron shall usher in unprecedented progress, unity, and transformation within our ranks and across the nation," he said.
Responding, the traditional ruler extolled the virtue of the NYA president for promoting national unity, innovation, and social justice through his group, as well as for preparing Nigerian youths for leadership and good governance.
He thanked NYA for finding him worthy to be their National Grand Patron and pledged his commitment to supporting the NYA's goals and uplifting the youth.
Meanwhile, after the youth leader (Abbas) was conducted around the Igwe Ogadagidi's Palace, and to some monuments built by the monarch in the community, he was excited and expressed his joy by donating N500,000 to support the Igwe's Food Bank (where indigent member of the community eats free food on daily basis), and also give out money to patience in the free hospital built by the traditional rural for his community.
The NYA president's excitement did not end there as he took to his social media handles and posted;
"Yesterday, I had the distinct privilege of being part of His Majesty’s entourage, witnessing firsthand the depth of his commitment, the admiration of his people, and the tangible impact of his visionary leadership across the kingdom.
Under his purposeful reign, Edem Ani has witnessed unprecedented development and social impact. His Royal Majesty has:
• Established a free hospital, ensuring accessible healthcare for all;
• Provided free potable water, safeguarding the well-being of the community;
• Constructed and rehabilitated critical road infrastructure, enhancing mobility and economic activity;
• Installed street lighting systems, improving safety and modernizing the environment;
• Founded a community food bank, delivering daily free meals to the vulnerable;
• Awarded scholarships, empowering the next generation through education.
These noble interventions are not only transforming Edem Ani but are also setting a powerful example for leadership across Nigeria and beyond.
Such dedication reflects the true essence of nation-building—where leadership is measured by impact, sacrifice, and the ability to uplift others. Igwe Ogadagidi I stands as a shining model of what is possible when authority is guided by compassion, vision, and an unwavering commitment to the people."
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