A Nigerian, Ms Irene Onwuka, a frontline youth activist and gender advocate, has emerged the Vice-President, West Africa, Pan-African Youth Union (PYU).

Onwuka, who is to coordinate youth development activities of the organisation in West African emerged unopposed to fill the vacant position on Monday in Abuja.

PYU is the apex and coordinating body for National Youth Councils and statutory voice for African youths.

She is now the first female from Nigeria to occupy the PYU executive position since the formation of the organistion.

Onwuka, in her acceptance speech, expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, the Minister of Youth Development, Dr Jamila Ibrahim for their roles in her victory.

She also commended the Minister of State for Youth Development, Mr Ayodele Olawande, and the President of National Youth Council of Nigeria, Mr Sukubo Sara-Igbe Sukubo for their support.

“I realise the huge responsibilities of my office and promise to hit the ground running alongside with her colleagues in the PYU.

Onwuka said the youth leaders would unify to develop programmes to address youth unemployment, risky migration, violence and insecurity among others challenges confronting the youth across countries of West Africa.

Reports says that Onwuka is expected to be sworn-in at a later date at the PYU headquarters in Morocco.

PYU has a consultative status with the African Union, and special observation status at all African heads of state and government meetings.

It would be recalled that the former Vice President, Mr Oladele Nihi, had resigned from the office following his appointment by the Kogi State governor as Chief Press Secretary. (NAN)