The Youth Wing of the Right Shift Educational Initiative, on Friday, 21 August 2026, presented the Executive Secretary, National Universities Commission (NUC), Professor Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu, FCVSN, with the “Nigerian Youth Golden Role Model Award” in recognition of his contributions to education, youth empowerment, research, innovation, accreditation and nation-building.
Presenting the award during a courtesy visit to the NUC, the Secretary-General of the Youth Association, Comrade Omolada Mojeed Kolawole, expressed appreciation to the Commission’s Management for granting the delegation an audience, noting that the primary purpose of the visit was to honour the Executive Secretary for his contributions to national development.
Comrade Kolawole said the organisation had closely followed Professor Ribadu’s contributions over the years, particularly in the areas of education, youth empowerment, research, innovation and accreditation, which informed its decision to recognise and honour him.
He described Professor Ribadu as a man of character, mentor, philanthropist and visionary leader whose impact is widely acknowledged across Nigeria, and prayed for divine wisdom and strength for him in the discharge of his responsibilities.
Responding, Professor Ribadu thanked the delegation for the visit and for the honour bestowed on him. He commended the Right Shift Educational Initiative for its commitment to youth development and skills acquisition.
The Executive Secretary emphasised that education in the 21st century must go beyond the acquisition of paper qualifications, stressing that Nigerian youths could become successful and self-reliant when equipped with relevant knowledge and skills.
He also encouraged Nigerian youths to embrace technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) responsibly, urging them to prepare themselves to take over from the present generation and surpass its achievements.
Professor Ribadu said the recognition had humbled him, adding that the award and the encouraging words from the organisation would further inspire him in his service to the nation. He assured the delegation of his support for laudable initiatives aimed at promoting youth empowerment, education and national development.
Speaking on behalf of the NUC Management, the Director, Research, Innovation and Information Technology (DRIIT), Mal. Lawal Mohammed Faruk, thanked the delegation for the visit and the honour bestowed on the Executive Secretary.
Mal. Faruk appreciated the organisation for identifying with the Commission and recognising the contributions of Professor Ribadu, while reaffirming the NUC’s commitment to collaborating with relevant stakeholders to advance education, research and youth development in Nigeria.
Members of the Right Shift Educational Initiative, Youth Wing delegation included the Northern Coordinator, Mr. Tuhir Abdulhamid; Gender Director, Ms. Nkechi Blessing; Woman Leader, Ms. Iquo Usin; and South-South Coordinator, Mr. Bobby Clinton. Also present at the ceremony were the NUC Directors of Academic Planning, Mr. Mohammed Girei; Accreditation, Engr. Abraham Chindusu; Human Resource, Mrs. Allisabatu Balogun; Acting Director, Executive Secretary’s Office, Mr. Adewale Bakare; and Deputy Director, Public Relations, representing the Director, Public Affairs, Mrs. Franca Chukwuonwo.