Idara Michael co-chairs JCI Southern Conference, urges youth-led national transformation

In a convergence of vision and leadership, over 400 delegates from across Nigeria and beyond gathered recently in Delta State for the JCI Nigeria 2026 Southern Conference, themed “Empowering Young Leaders as a Catalyst for Sustainable National Development.”

At the helm of this landmark event was Ambassador Idara Michael, Executive Vice President (South-West), who served as Co-Chair of the conference.

The conference, tagged “Waffi 2026”, was graced by notable leaders including the National President of JCI Nigeria, JCI International Vice President (Africa & Middle East) JCIN Samuel Takudzwa Nehumba from Zimbabwe, members of the JCI Nigeria Executive Board,
Southern Area Team Members, and representatives from the JCI Nigeria Senate Association.

The opening ceremony was a vibrant spectacle of culture and unity. Delegates adorned themselves in traditional Urhobo attire, creating a colorful and immersive experience that celebrated the rich heritage of Warri.

In their joint address, the conference Chairpersons captured the resilient spirit of the host city, echoing the popular phrase: “Warri no dey carry last.”

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“Leadership must be purpose-driven, not position-driven,” Ambassador Idara declared.

“Sustainable development is built through innovation, integrity, and collaboration. Young leaders must shift from competition to partnership and community impact. True leadership is anchored on a clear sense of purpose, which drives long-term solutions beyond personal gain.”

The conference featured a high-level panel session on “Diversifying Nigeria’s Fiscal Policy Beyond Oil and Gas,” featuring seasoned professionals including Edirin Alex Ijeoma. Delegates were equipped with practical knowledge on Nigeria’s economic structure, exploring opportunities for diversification and innovation.

Beyond learning, delegates experienced the social and recreational side of Warri with a visit to Boloweis Beach Resort, where activities included boat cruises, recreational games, and networking sessions.

The Closing Ceremony and Awards Night celebrated excellence across local organizations, with outstanding members recognized for their impactful contributions to communities across Nigeria.

Ifeoma Okeke-Korieocha

Ifeoma Okeke-Korieocha is the Aviation Correspondent at BusinessDay Media Limited, publishers of BusinessDay Newspapers. She is also the Deputy Editor, BusinessDay Weekender Magazine, the Saturday Weekend edition of BusinessDay. She holds a BSC in Mass Communication from the prestigious University of Nigeria, Nsukka and a Masters degree in Marketing at the University of Lagos. As the lead writer on the aviation desk, Ifeoma is responsible and in charge of the three weekly aviation and travel pages in BusinessDay and BDSunday. She also overseas and edits all pages of BusinessDay Saturday Weekender. She has written various investigative, features and news stories in aviation and business related issues and has been severally nominated for award in the category of Aviation Writer of the Year by the Nigeria Media Nite-Out awards; one of the Nigeria’s most prestigious media awards ceremonies. Ifeoma is a one-time winner of the prestigious Nigeria Media Merit Award under the 'Aviation Writer of the Year' Category. She is the 2025 Eloy Award winner under the Print Media Journalist category. She has undergone several journalism trainings by various prestigious organisations. Ifeoma is also a fellow of the Female Reporters Leadership Fellowship of the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism.