Abuja is set to play host to a wave of energy, colour, and camaraderie as the Scouts Association of Nigeria prepares for its annual jamboree, expected to draw 3,500 young scouts from across the country.
Speaking at a world press conference in Abuja on Thursday, Chief Commissioner of the Scouts Association of Nigeria, Dr. Dave Paldopal Awuna, said the one-week event—scheduled for August 15–21, 2025—will welcome participants from all 36 states under the theme “Towards Peace and Unity.”
According to Dr. Awuna, the jamboree aims to reignite national consciousness among Nigeria’s youth, promoting harmony across religious, cultural, and ethnic divides. “This year’s Scouts Parade and President’s Award (NISPPA) is designed to strengthen national cohesion and help young scouts see themselves as one family,” he said.
The Chief Commissioner revealed that the association is considering making the jamboree an annual tradition, describing it as a platform for closing the gap in what Nigeria needs most today—unity. “That is what the Scouts have represented for over 100 years,” he noted.
While praising President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu for their past contributions to scouting, Dr. Awuna appealed to the Federal Government for greater support. He lamented that unlike countries such as Kenya—where scouting enjoys strong government backing—Nigeria’s scouts receive little or no official patronage despite their contributions to nation-building.
“In spite of our lean resources, we have collaborated with agencies like NAPTIP in campaigns against drug abuse, child trafficking, and other social vices. These efforts positively impact society, yet government presence is minimal,” he said.
Dr. Awuna stressed that no nation can grow without scouting, calling for policies to integrate scouting into national youth development programmes. He urged collaboration to help rid young Nigerians of vices such as drug abuse, armed robbery, and internet fraud.
Present at the briefing were Hon. Aghatese Idubor, JP, member of the Scouts Board; Dr. Segun Akintobi, National Headquarters Commissioner; Eng. Babatunde Oyetayo, National Executive; and Dr. Zack Ekanola, Chairman of the NISPPA Planning Committee.
With just days to go, Abuja will soon be alive with the discipline, dedication, and hope that scouting represents—bringing together thousands of young Nigerians determined to build a more united future.
