- Bags ‘Ambassador of Peace’ award from Imo youths
By Ifeanyi Iheakanwa
In a major political and civic event, Owerri—the capital city of Imo State—came to a standstill on Friday, May 9, 2025, as the City Boy Movement (CBM) officially launched its Imo State office. The ceremony marked a new chapter for the fast-growing youth-based organization championing the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The event, which drew political stakeholders, youth leaders, and residents from across the state, was spearheaded by the movement’s Convener, Mr. Seyi Tinubu, ho was ably represented by the Director General of CBM, Hon. Francis Oluwatosi Shoga. Also present were several national leaders of the group, including Favour Abayomi, Chairperson of the National Executive Council.
The newly inaugurated state office, situated in Area New Owerri, was a generous donation from Hon. Goodluck Chidera Nwaneri, the Imo State Director of CBM and founder of the Goodluck Nwaneri Foundation (GNF). The edifice stands as a symbol of renewed political commitment and youth mobilization in the state.
In his address, Hon. Shoga, speaking on behalf of the Convener, expressed deep appreciation to the people of Imo State for their overwhelming support and hospitality. He paid glowing tribute to Hon. Nwaneri for his unwavering dedication, describing him as a pillar of youth empowerment and grassroots political engagement.
Shoga stated that Imo has proven to be a formidable base for President Tinubu’s re-election efforts, citing the unity, energy, and passion of the youths as key drivers of the movement’s growth in the Southeast. He described CBM as a coalition of progressive Nigerian youths who are committed to nation-building and have already produced leaders across different sectors including government, business, and civil society.
In a rousing speech, Hon. Goodluck Nwaneri described President Tinubu as one of Nigeria’s most visionary and youth-friendly leaders. He urged Imo residents to align themselves with the goals of the movement and rally behind Tinubu’s leadership.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is the only leader who has genuinely prioritized Nigerian youths, appointing several into key positions. This shows that he believes in our capacity to lead and transform this nation,” Nwaneri declared.
He further pledged full support to the City Boy Movement, both in action and resources. “We will support this movement with our time, energy, funds, and most importantly, love. I am proud to donate this office to ensure the success of this vision in Imo State,” he said.
Nwaneri also called on Imo indigenes in the diaspora to join the effort, noting that their contributions would be instrumental in realizing the re-election bid of President Tinubu in 2027.
Highlighting his philanthropic works, Nwaneri recounted how his foundation had paid off hospital bills for indigent patients, sponsored JAMB registrations for over 2,000 students, and distributed free fuel to more than 4,000 commercial vehicle operators in Imo State. He assured the public of his continued commitment to humanitarian service.
Later the same day, Hon. Nwaneri received the Ambassador of Peace award from a coalition of Imo youths during the Imo Youth Stakeholders Security Summit, held at Rockview Hotel and organized by the Ministry of Youth Development and Talent Hunt. The award was presented in recognition of his consistent efforts in promoting peace, youth empowerment, and community development.
In his acceptance remarks, Nwaneri dedicated the award to the people of Imo and reaffirmed his belief that sustainable peace is not just possible but essential for the state’s progress.
