Muhammad Bello Bala Shagari elected chairman of NAM Youth Organization

Muhammad Bello Bala Shagari, head of the Nigerian national chapter of the Non-Aligned Movement Youth Organization (NAMYO), has been elected the organization's new chairman following a vote involving representatives from 65 countries.

According to Report, citing the organization, Shagari is regarded as one of the most active young leaders in Africa and also works as a documentary filmmaker.

He previously served as NAMYO's Vice Chairman for the Africa region and head of its national chapter in Nigeria.

Shagari has also served as President of the National Youth Council of Nigeria and has led various initiatives in youth development, civic education and international cooperation.

A recipient of numerous local and international awards, he has also participated as an organizer in international events focused on civic engagement, African unity and diplomacy.

The new chairman studied Business Information Systems and Information Technology at Middlesex University London.

Representatives of five NAMYO member countries competed for the chairmanship. Following a competitive four-round voting process, the Nigerian candidate emerged ahead of his rivals.

The position had previously been held by Azerbaijan's representative Leyla Hasanova, a recipient of the Azerbaijani President's Youth Award and COP29 Youth Champion.