NYCN awards Roy Okonkwo as a Digital Innovator for Excellence in Emerging Technologies

By Rebecca Ejifoma

The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) established in 1964, under the leadership of Honorable Sukubo Sara-Igbe, is an organization that has been committed to promoting the interests and welfare of Nigerian youth for decades. The organization honored Roy Okonkwo with the prestigious Digital Innovation Award for Excellence in Emerging Technologies. This award, given to outstanding professionals in the tech space, recognized Roy’s exceptional intellect, groundbreaking innovations, and unwavering dedication to advancing technology in Nigeria, particularly in fostering youth development.

Roy Okonkwo was selected after a thorough evaluation process, where his contributions to emerging technologies stood out. The NYCN is a body that aims for the advancement, coordination of youth development and this award to Roy shows his utmost dedication to this cause. His innovative work on the N-Power National youth employment program where he helped improve data management, privacy and security, for over 500,000 Nigerian youth, alongside his technical support for the National Social Housing Program in securing sensitive data, were notable achievements that caught the council’s attention.

While announcing the award, NYCN President Sukubo highlighted Roy’s intellectual brilliance, visionary approach to innovation, and dedication to nurturing a new generation of tech-savvy Nigerian youth as some of the distinguishing factors that singled Roy out. Through mentorship, advocacy, and support, Roy has played a pivotal role in shaping future leaders in Nigeria’s tech space, contributing significantly to the country’s digital economy and socio-economic development.

In his speech after receiving the award, Roy reaffirmed his passion for empowering Nigerian youth in the tech space. He also pledged his ongoing commitment to their growth, support, and upskilling. This recognition by the NYCN not only highlights Roy Okonkwo’s leadership and impact in the field of emerging technologies but also emphasizes the importance of innovation in driving Nigeria’s future. Roy’s dedication exemplifies the Nigerian spirit, and this award is a proof to his remarkable contributions to the nation’s technological advancement.