FCC boss pledges support for youth empowerment

The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission, Ayo Omidiran, has pledged to support initiatives aimed at promoting education, youth empowerment and sports development in Nigeria.

Omidiran made the commitment on Thursday when the management of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, led by its Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Adamu Ahmed, paid a courtesy visit to the commission’s headquarters in Abuja.

The FCC chairman, who is an alumna of the university, said ABU played a significant role in shaping her character and preparing her for leadership and national service.

“I remain immensely proud to be an alumna of Ahmadu Bello University. The University shaped my character, broadened my perspective and prepared me for the responsibilities of leadership and national service.

“I will always cherish the institution and remain committed to supporting initiatives that promote education, national development and youth empowerment,” she said.

Omidiran also welcomed the university’s request for closer collaboration, particularly its emergence as host of the 2028 Nigeria University Games and its designation as one of the nation’s National Centres of Excellence in Sports.

She described the developments as strategic opportunities to nurture young talents and strengthen Nigeria’s sports ecosystem.

The former member of the House of Representatives also accepted an invitation to participate in ABU’s 64th anniversary celebrations scheduled for October 4, 2026.

Earlier, the ABU Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Adamu Ahmed, commended Omidiran for her achievements in public service and sports administration, describing her as one of the university’s distinguished alumni.

Ahmed noted that Omidiran obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry from ABU and served as the Student Union Government Secretary of Queen Amina Hall.

“As an alumna of Ahmadu Bello University, where you obtained your Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry and served as Student Union Government Secretary of Queen Amina Hall, you exemplify the values of leadership, excellence, integrity and service that our University seeks to instil in its graduates,” he said.

The vice-chancellor also highlighted Omidiran’s career as a two-term member of the House of Representatives, a pioneering member of FIFA’s Women’s Committee, Secretary of the Board of Trustees of the Nigerian Olympic Committee, founder of Omidiran Babes Football Club and her current role as FCC chairman.

He commended her leadership of the commission, saying her commitment to equity, fairness, national cohesion and inclusive representation aligned with ABU’s founding ideals.

Ahmed further sought Omidiran’s support and guidance as the university prepares to host the 2028 NUGA Games and develop its sports centre.

“These landmark developments present enormous opportunities for the University to contribute to sports development, talent discovery and youth empowerment,” he said.

“We look forward to drawing upon your vast experience, guidance and support as we prepare to deliver a memorable NUGA Games and build a Centre of Excellence that will become a national model for sports development,” he added.

The ABU delegation included the Registrar, Rabiu Samaila; Director of Public Affairs, Awwal Umar; Director of Sports, Dr Omeiza; Prof. Danladi Amoh; Prof. Sani Ibrahim; Deputy Registrar, Ingino Danjuma Voh; Liaison Officer, Haruna Ajo; and Head of the Department of Biochemistry, Prof. Aliyu Salihu.