By Hosea Parah
The Director General of the Committee of Youth on Mobilisation and Sensitisation (CYMS), Chief Obinna Nwaka, has urged young Nigerians to embrace hard work, sacrifice, integrity, and service to humanity as the foundation for achieving lasting success.
Speaking during his birthday celebration attended by government officials, youth leaders, friends, and associates, Nwaka, who reflected on his humble beginnings and remarkable journey to national leadership, stressed that his achievements were the result of God’s grace, persistence, and unwavering commitment to youth development.
He described the event as a celebration of collective progress rather than a personal achievement, noting that every milestone he has attained has been dedicated to empowering young people across Nigeria.
”I am not celebrating myself; we are celebrating all of us. Everything I have achieved is because of God, sacrifice, consistency, and service to humanity,” he said.
Nwaka disclosed that he grew up in extreme poverty in Ajegunle, Lagos State, where his family of eight lived in a single room, and shared basic facilities with several other tenants.
He noted that despite the difficult circumstances, he remained focused on his education and personal development.
He recounted studying under streetlights, relying on the kindness of friends for food and academic materials, and working as a bank security guard while still an undergraduate to support himself through school.
According to him, his determination paid off as he scored 245 in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), eventually graduating and beginning a journey of public service that has earned him a national recognition.
Nwaka also narrated his experience during the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), revealing that he served in a remote community lacking electricity, telecommunications, and other basic infrastructure. He noted that his commitment to serving in difficult conditions shaped his leadership philosophy.
Reflecting on personal challenges, he recalled losing his father during his service year because communication challenges prevented him from receiving the news in time.
He encouraged young Nigerians not to allow temporary setbacks to define their future.
”If you miss a step today, it doesn’t mean you cannot correct it tomorrow. Your background should never determine your destination,” he said.
The youth leader urged Nigerians to remain humble regardless of their achievements, emphasising that earthly possessions and positions are temporary, while acts of kindness and service leave lasting legacies.
He credited several mentors, colleagues, and government officials for believing in his leadership potential and providing opportunities that contributed to his growth.
He particularly appreciated senior officials in government, members of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, the Federal Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), former colleagues, and CYMS executives for their continued support.
Nwaka also expressed gratitude to the Minister of Youth Development for his confidence and mentorship, pledging his continued loyalty and commitment to advancing youth-focused initiatives.
He reaffirmed that the progress recorded by CYMS was built on teamwork, trust, and shared vision, assuring members that the organisation would continue expanding opportunities for young Nigerians.
The CYMS Director General concluded by encouraging youths to remain faithful, diligent, and committed to serving humanity, stressing that true leadership is built on sacrifice, consistency, and a genuine desire to uplift others.