Comrade Obande Gideon Obande has been elected President of the Middle-Belt Youth Congress (MYC) for a four-year term, following an elective congress held at Agura Hotel, Abuja on Sunday.
The congress, which brought together youth leaders and stakeholders from across the Middle-Belt region, marks a significant step in strengthening youth-driven advocacy and leadership within the zone. The MBYC is focused on the emancipation and development of the Middle-Belt through advocacy for industrialisation, infrastructure development, political inclusion, and youth empowerment.
In his acceptance speech, Comrade Obande pledged to place the collective interest of the Middle-Belt above personal considerations, stressing the need for unity and purposeful leadership in addressing the region’s challenges.
“I will place the interest of the region above all else. This mandate is a call to serve, unite, and advance an agenda that reflects the aspirations of our people,” he said.
Obande, a former student union leader and immediate past President of the Ochetoha K’Idoma Youth Wing, has played a notable role in promoting the Middle Belt agenda over the years. His emergence is seen as a reflection of confidence in his leadership capacity and commitment to the region.
Under his administration, expectations are high that the MYC will intensify its advocacy for inclusive governance, with a focus on increasing the representation of Middle-Belt youths in decision-making processes at both state and federal levels. His leadership is also expected to promote partnerships with government institutions, the private sector, and development organisations to expand opportunities for youth empowerment and regional growth.
Obande’s emergence comes at a time when many in the region are calling for stronger coordination and a more unified voice in national affairs. His background in youth leadership and regional advocacy is seen as an advantage in driving this agenda.
His presidency is also viewed as an opportunity to strengthen the role of the Congress in advancing the development of the Middle-Belt, with attention on how effectively his administration will translate its plans into tangible results for the region.
With a clear mandate and growing expectations, Comrade Obande now faces the task of delivering on his promises and shaping a more inclusive and prosperous future for the Middle-Belt.
