By Onyemaechi Charles Uruakpa, CCN News Correspondent, Abuja
September 21, 2026

Abuja, Nigeria: The Youth Coalition for Education in Nigeria (YOCEN) has honoured the General Secretary of the Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN), The Rt. Revd. Evans Onyemara, Ph.D., recognising his leadership, Christian service and contributions to education, human capital development and nation-building.

The recognition was presented on Monday, September 21, 2026, during a Legacy Courtesy Visit to the CCN General Secretary. The visit also featured an interview with Bishop Onyemara for YOCEN’s magazine, Chronicles of Legend.

YOCEN said the publication profiles individuals contributing to effective service delivery, human capital development, educational transformation, the preaching of the Gospel and the building of a better Nigeria.

YOCEN Confers Patronage Recognition

A major highlight of the visit was the presentation of YOCEN’s Noble Prize Award of Credence, through which Bishop Onyemara was recognised as a Patron and described as a “Vanguard of Societal Transformation in Nigeria.”

Speaking during the visit, Engr. Yakubu Nurudeen Yahaya, Secretary General of YOCEN, said the organisation considers Bishop Onyemara a father figure and role model. He expressed the desire of the YOCEN leadership to benefit from his mentorship and guidance.

Engr. Yahaya also called on government and relevant stakeholders to increase investment in education, noting that stronger educational opportunities can contribute to reducing crime and promoting peace.

Onyemara: “I Dedicate This Recognition to My Staff”

Responding, Bishop Onyemara expressed appreciation to the leadership of YOCEN for the honour and welcomed the opportunity to engage with the youth-focused organisation.

He pledged his support and encouragement to YOCEN as it pursues its educational and youth development initiatives.

The CCN General Secretary also dedicated the recognition to the staff of the Christian Council of Nigeria who were present during the presentation, acknowledging their collective contribution to the work and achievements associated with his office.

YOCEN Delegation

Joining Engr. Yakubu Nurudeen Yahaya, Secretary General of YOCEN, in the delegation were Amb. A.A. Sadiq, South-West Coordinator; Amb. Michael Yakubu, National Youth Council of Nigeria, Kogi State; and Amb. Alex Sunday, Director of Media and Publicity, YOCEN.

The visit and recognition underscore the importance of partnerships around education, youth development, faith, service and nation-building.

For the Christian Council of Nigeria, the occasion reflects the value of faith-based engagement that connects Christian service with practical efforts to strengthen people, communities and the nation.

Education. Leadership. Faith. Transformation.

These remain vital building blocks for empowering a generation capable of making meaningful contributions to the Church, communities and Nigeria.