Dr. Nkiruka Ezeoka receives Nelson Mandela’s award, appointed ECOWAS ambassador

The West African Youth Council (WAYC) has named Dr. Nkiruka Ezeoka an ECOWAS Youth Ambassador and bestowed upon her the coveted Nelson Mandela Leadership Award of Excellence and Integrity. Dr. Ezeoka is a well-known public administration specialist and fervent supporter of youth empowerment.

The renowned South African leader Nelson Mandela is honored with the Nelson Mandela Leadership Award, which honors people who exhibit exceptional leadership abilities and a dedication to social justice and honesty.

Dr. Ezeoka’s unwavering efforts to empower youth and advance sustainable development in West Africa have been recognized with this award.

The West African Youth Council (WAYC), headquartered in Cape Verde, provides a platform for youth participation in politics, socio-economic activities, and governance in West Africa. WAYC’s objective is to promote youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, and leadership development in the region.

The dual accolades were conferred during a ceremonious event held in Lagos, Nigeria, where Dr. Ezeoka delivered a stirring acceptance speech outlining her vision and commitment.

In her acceptance speech, Dr. Ezeoka delivered an inspiring address highlighting her vision and commitment to youth empowerment. She expressed her gratitude for the recognition and outlined her goals as the ECOWAS Youth Ambassador.

“This honor is not just a recognition of my achievements but also a call to action,” said Dr. Ezeoka. “As ECOWAS Youth Ambassador, I pledge to dedicate myself to empowering young people across West Africa, amplifying their voices, and fostering a spirit of unity and cooperation.”

Dr. Ezeoka emphasized her mission to engage with youth leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators, leveraging her expertise in public administration to support sustainable development projects and policy initiatives. She announced plans to embark on a listening tour, traveling across the region to hear the concerns and aspirations of young people and amplify their stories through various platforms.

“I will establish partnerships with organizations, governments, and stakeholders to create opportunities for capacity building, skills development, and resource sharing,” she stated. “I will advocate for policies and programs that prioritize education, employment, and entrepreneurship, ensuring that young people are at the forefront of our region’s economic and social transformation.”

Dr. Nkiruka Ezeoka’s award sparked widespread excitement and inspiration among young people across West Africa. Reacting to the news, the community of West African graduates from Prowess University, where Dr. Ezeoka earned her Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Public Administration expressed their admiration and pride. A spokesperson remarked, “Her achievements serve as an inspiration to us all, reflecting dedication and excellence that we strive to uphold at Prowess University.”

Addressing news men after the event, Dr. Ezeoka shared her inspiration and plans for the future. She highlighted her passion for empowering young people and fostering unity in West Africa, stating that this role as ECOWAS Youth Ambassador is a dream come true, allowing her to make a meaningful impact. She reiterated her top priorities: focusing on education, entrepreneurship, and employment to create opportunities and drive sustainable development.

Dr. Ezeoka plans to engage with young people across the region through a listening tour, social media, and partnerships with organizations, aiming to reach grassroots levels and hear their stories, challenges, and ideas. She assured that the success of her tenure would be measured by the number of lives impacted, policies influenced, and partnerships forged, ensuring transparency and accountability in all initiatives.

Addressing concerns about youth leadership in West Africa, Dr. Ezeoka expressed her belief in the region’s talented and driven young people. She pledged to showcase their excellence and bridge the gap between generations, leveraging her role to advocate for their potential.

Balancing her new role with other responsibilities, Dr. Ezeoka emphasized the importance of prioritizing, delegating, and working smart. She plans to leverage technology, partnerships, and creative solutions to maximize her impact.

Dr. Ezeoka’s long-term vision for West Africa’s youth is to see a united, prosperous, and peaceful region where young people drive innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development, making their mark on the global stage.

In conclusion, Dr. Ezeoka’s leadership and vision are poised to inspire a new generation of leaders and drive sustainable development in West Africa. Her commitment to empowering young people and fostering unity in the region is a testament to the legacy of Nelson Mandela, and her work will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the region.