The National President of the Catholic Youth Organization of Nigeria (CYON), Gozife Kizito Eze, has appealed to young Nigerians to rise above materialistic pressures, anchor themselves in faith, and become instruments of positive change in the country.
Speaking to ACI Africa during his visit to the Catholic Archdiocese of Abuja, Mr. Eze encouraged youths not to allow Nigeria’s difficult economic and social realities to crush their hope.
According to him, many young people feel overwhelmed and discouraged, but faith coupled with responsibility can empower them to transform the nation. “Faith becomes meaningful when it moves us to action,” he said, adding that Christians are called to illuminate society with courage and conviction, especially in times of despair.
Mr. Eze expressed concern that numerous young people remain hesitant to engage in meaningful conversations or evangelization, often held back by fear or peer pressure. He emphasized the need for attentive listening and spiritual discernment, noting that true solutions emerge when guided by the Holy Spirit.
The CYON President also urged the Church in Nigeria to deepen its pastoral presence among youths. He said many young people feel unseen or unheard in their parishes and suggested more interactive initiatives, such as A Day with the Bishop, to help bridge the gap. “When young people are not given space to speak, they drift away,” he noted.
He further encouraged youths to ground themselves in the Church’s teachings and reject the growing fascination with ritual practices and the pursuit of sudden wealth, particularly prevalent in parts of southern Nigeria. Such trends, he said, contradict the Christian call to holiness and undermine young people’s spiritual identity.
“Following Christ means choosing prayer, mission, and a steadfast faith,” he added. “These are the virtues that form a true Christian life.”
Reflecting on the ongoing Jubilee Year 2025, Mr. Eze highlighted the numerous faith-building programs that dioceses across Nigeria have launched to help young Catholics renew their relationship with God. He recalled that many Nigerian delegates who attended the Jubilee of Youth in Rome earlier in the year returned spiritually strengthened and hopeful.
He concluded by affirming that the Church’s commitment is to help young people rediscover joy in Christ. Holding firmly to this hope, he said, will empower Nigerian youths to confront hardship without losing their sense of purpose or dignity.
Credit: aciafrica
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