African Transformer Institute (ATI), a civil society organisation, says it will host a simulation of the African Union (AU) summit in Abuja in December this year.
Augustine Igweshi, President of ATI, told newsmen on Saturday that the Abuja Model African Union (AMAU) summit would involve simulation of the AU General Assembly and Commission as well as plenary and committees sessions by African youths.
According to him, participants in the summit will be exposed to the ideals of leadership, diplomacy, negotiation, debate, lobbying as well as international relations.
It will also provide networking opportunities which are enviable qualities that are in high demand in our corporate world, he said.
He called on stakeholders to support the Abuja Model African Union project by supporting youths in their constituencies to participate in the summit.
The ATI president also advised youths to shun political apathy and embrace constructive development in the 2023 general elections.
Igweshi said Nigerian youths should think development and true federalism, and put future of the country first above other momentary gains.
“Think about a leadership that is democratic, contributory and all inclusive, that can bring about positive changes to your life and your future; and also national development, think Nigeria first.
“Knowing first that Nigeria is a diverse nation will help you map out strategic leadership plans that are workable, ask first what your political leaders can bring to the table,” he said.
He said that youths constituted the largest demographic bloc in Africa and urged them to come out and vote en mass in the 2023 general elections.
“We will be carrying out election campaigns in January to sensitise youths on the importance of not engaging in election violence,” he said.
“As part of our organisation’s efforts towards building exceptional leadership, we are collaborating with Global Socio-economic and Financial Evolution Network Worldwide (GSFEN Worldwide) and Peace Ambassador Agency Worldwide.
He said that the organisation would honour distinguished personalities who have exhibited great and exemplary leadership qualities during its “Unprecedented Leadership and Heroes’ Awards holding in Abuja in November.
He said that the prestigious international award would recognize distinguished individuals for their unprecedented excellence and pragmatism in leadership, innovation, entrepreneurship, profession, business and influence as well as community development, peace and security.
He said that the award was being organised in collaboration with Global Socio-economic and Financial Evolution Network (GSFEN) and Peace Ambassador Agency Worldwide.
Notable personalities already nominated for the award include Vice President of Global Goodwill Foundation U.S.A, Amb. Lisa Jones, Prof. Peter Bheda of Boston University of Hospitality, U.S.A, Prof. Blessing Lawal Nigeria, Amb. Ghazala Khan, Dr Gomez U.S.A, among many others.