The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, Hon. Adeyinka Anthony Adeboye, has been honoured with an Excellence Award as Icon of Youth and Sports Development by the National Association of Northern Nigerian Students (NANNS) during a courtesy visit to his office in Abuja.
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The delegation, led by its President, Ibrahim Adamu, alongside key members including Khadija Wealth Abubakar, described the SSA as a symbol of visionary leadership whose impact in grassroots sports and youth empowerment continues to inspire young Nigerians across the country.
Presenting the award, Ibrahim Adamu noted that the recognition was in appreciation of Adeboye’s unwavering commitment to youth development and nation-building.
“This award is a reflection of your dedication to empowering young people and creating opportunities through sports. Your leadership continues to inspire a new generation of Nigerians.”
He further emphasized the association’s readiness to collaborate with the SSA’s office to deepen youth engagement and development initiatives.
“We are not just here to celebrate you, but to also seek a partnership with your office. We believe that by working together, we can expand opportunities for young people, especially in areas of leadership, sports, and national development.”
The National Association of Northern Nigerian Students (NANNS) is a students’ conglomerate established to bridge the gap between the present generation and those ahead, with the aim of securing the future prosperity of society. Its focus spans career guidance, peace and harmony, unity in diversity, generational discipline, good governance, leadership training, and administrative proficiency.
The association also promotes students’ rights and good governance, with executive members and coordinators across various parts of Nigeria. Its corporate secretariat is located at Bayero University Kano, Kano State.
In his response, Hon. Adeboye expressed heartfelt appreciation for the honour, describing it as both humbling and encouraging.
“I am truly honoured by this recognition from NANNS. It is always encouraging to see young people appreciate and believe in the work we are doing.”
He, however, maintained a tone of humility, dedicating the award to the collective efforts of his team and stakeholders.
“This award is not just for me, it belongs to everyone who shares in the vision of empowering young Nigerians. I remain committed to serving with humility and purpose.”
Adeboye also welcomed the proposed collaboration, reaffirming his office’s openness to partnerships that align with youth development and grassroots engagement.
“My office remains open to meaningful collaborations. Together, we can do more to build capacity, create opportunities, and shape a better future for our youths.”
Observers noted that the honour adds to the growing list of recognitions received by the SSA, further cementing his position as a leading figure in grassroots sports development and youth empowerment in Nigeria.
The visit ended on a high note, with both parties expressing optimism about future collaboration aimed at driving national development through youth-focused initiatives.
