NYCN Honours Lt. Col. Garba as Best Performing Commanding Officer, Hails His Impact on Security and Youth Development

By Rukevwe Palmer

The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Sapele Local Government Area Chapter, has honoured the Commanding Officer of the 90 Amphibious Battalion, Nigerian Army, Koko, Lt. Col. M. M. Garba, with its Prestigious Award as Best Performing Commanding Officer, celebrating his outstanding leadership, commitment to community security, and remarkable support for youth development across Sapele and neighbouring environments.

The honour, presented during a courtesy visit to the battalion headquarters in Koko, was described by NYCN as a recognition of the officer’s exceptional leadership, commitment to community safety, and support for youth-focused initiatives across the region.

The council stated that the award reflects the high regard in which Garba is held by young people and stakeholders in Sapele and its environs.

Following the presentation, Lt. Col. Garba addressed the delegation and expressed sincere appreciation for the recognition. He described the award as a call to greater service and urged the NYCN to intensify advocacy on issues affecting the youth, particularly the rising challenge of drug abuse.

Garba stressed that many youth-related crimes stem from substance misuse, and greater sensitization remains a critical tool for reducing these incidents.

He reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to defending communities, improving soldiers’ welfare, and sustaining top-level training standards to effectively combat criminal activities nationwide.

He added that the military will continue to collaborate with credible youth organizations to strengthen peace and security in Delta State.

The Chairman of NYCN Sapele Chapter, Comr. Kingsley Abebe, said the council carefully evaluated the performance of several officers before selecting Garba for the award.

According to him, the Commanding Officer stood out for his dedication to duty, his supportive relationship with youths, and his efforts in promoting peace and community safety.

Abebe explained that beyond military operations, Garba has shown genuine interest in youth development by supporting empowerment programs, encouraging positive initiatives, and maintaining an open line of engagement with community leaders. He added that the NYCN considers the award a well-deserved acknowledgement of a leader whose influence has been consistently impactful.

“This honour is not just symbolic; it represents the admiration that the youths of Sapele and its environs have for Lt. Col. Garba,” Abebe said. “We are proud of his integrity, his service to humanity, and the stability he has helped build within our communities.”

The Public Relations Officer I of NYCN Sapele Chapter, Comr. Mene Lucky, also praised the Commanding Officer, describing him as “a dependable pillar of support to the youth constituency.” He emphasized that the officer’s approach to security, welfare, and community relations has earned him wide respect.

“NYCN appreciates his exceptional work,” Mene Lucky said. “His leadership style, strategic contributions, and willingness to engage constructively with young people make him worthy of this prestigious award. We believe he represents the excellence Nigeria’s youth should aspire to.”

Other NYCN Sapele executives at the event included: Comr. Isaiah Ovienlonba (Vice Chairman), Comr. Nasiru Ado (Secretary), Comr. Igweanya U. Joy (Assistant Secretary), Comr. Onoh Wakpor Goodluck (Program Officer), Comr. Ogodo Abigail (Social Secretary), Comr. Commander Becky (Treasurer), Comr. Okuse Emmanuel (Financial Secretary), Comr. Ikoko Francis (PRO 2), and Comr. Chikale Stanley (Auditor).