The Corpers’ Journey Advocacy Network (CJAN) has celebrated the Founder of the Africa International Housing Show, Festus Adebayo, on the occasion of his birthday, crediting his vision and mentorship for influencing the growth of youth-driven advocacy in Nigeria.
In a statement released on Saturday, CJAN Founder and Director of Youth Advocacy & Policy at the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Ambassador Taiwo Ajayi, described Adebayo as a “visionary leader whose ideas have inspired a new generation of youth advocates committed to national development.”
Ajayi noted that Adebayo’s work in the housing sector has gone beyond convening stakeholders, stressing that his approach to development has shaped how young people engage with policy and advocacy.
According to him, “Barrister Festus Adebayo represents a model of leadership anchored on structure, consistency, and practical solutions. His school of thought has significantly influenced the creation and direction of the Corpers’ Journey Advocacy Network.”
CJAN, a youth-focused advocacy platform, was established to mobilize young Nigerians toward active participation in governance, policy development, and civic responsibility. Ajayi explained that exposure to Adebayo’s initiatives, including the Africa International Housing Show and the Housing Development Advocacy Network, provided the intellectual foundation for the network.
He added that Adebayo’s emphasis on structured engagement and solution-driven advocacy has helped reposition youth involvement from passive observation to active contribution.
“Through his work, we have learned that advocacy must be deliberate and impactful. This philosophy continues to guide our operations within CJAN as we push for policies that reflect the needs and aspirations of young Nigerians,” Ajayi said.
The CJAN founder also highlighted the significance of the 2026 edition of the Africa International Housing Show, scheduled to hold from July 13 to 18 at the Transcorp Hilton Abuja. He described the event as a critical platform that continues to drive conversations around housing accessibility and affordability across Africa.
He noted that Adebayo’s consistency in sustaining the annual event reflects a broader commitment to addressing Africa’s housing deficit while fostering collaboration among governments, private sector players, and development partners.
Ajayi further emphasized that Adebayo’s mentorship has created a ripple effect, empowering young people to take leadership roles in advocacy and policy engagement across the country.
“As he marks another year, we celebrate not just his life but his impact. His vision continues to guide us, and his work remains a source of inspiration for young advocates across Nigeria and beyond,” he stated.
The statement concluded by reaffirming CJAN’s commitment to advancing youth advocacy and policy engagement, drawing from the principles and leadership example demonstrated by Adebayo.
