Muhammad Bello Bala-Shagari from Nigeria has been elected as the Chairperson of the Non-Aligned Movement Youth Organization (NAMYO) for the 2026-2029 term. The election took place in Baku, Azerbaijan, after a competitive four-round process. Bala-Shagari defeated candidates from Qatar, Tanzania, Uganda, and Uzbekistan. The final round was between Nigeria and Qatar, with 58 ballots cast out of 65 eligible voters. Bala-Shagari secured 39 votes, while Qatar's Khadeja Ahmad Albuhaqliqa obtained 19 votes.
Bala-Shagari's election marks a significant milestone for NAMYO, established in 2022 as the youth arm of the Non-Aligned Movement. The organization provides a platform for young people from member states to promote youth cooperation, leadership, peacebuilding, sustainable development, international solidarity, and civic participation. As the first elected Chairperson of NAMYO, Bala-Shagari brings considerable experience in youth leadership and international engagement to the position.
Bala-Shagari has a strong background in youth leadership and international engagement. He previously served as NAMYO Vice Chairperson for Africa and headed the organization's Nigerian national chapter. Additionally, he was the President of the National Youth Council of Nigeria and has been involved in youth development, civic engagement, international cooperation, and documentary filmmaking.
Bala-Shagari's emergence continues a political leadership legacy associated with his family. He is the grandson of former Nigerian President Shehu Usman Aliyu Shagari, who became Nigeria's first democratically elected executive president in 1979. While his grandfather emerged through Nigeria's first presidential election under the Second Republic, Bala-Shagari has now secured an elected leadership position on an international youth platform.
Bala-Shagari is expected to assume office on October 1, 2026, succeeding Azerbaijan's Leyla Hasanova, who previously served as NAMYO Chairperson. His election is seen as a significant achievement for Nigeria and the Non-Aligned Movement Youth Organization. Bala-Shagari's experience and leadership skills are expected to contribute to the growth and development of NAMYO.
The Non-Aligned Movement Youth Organization aims to promote youth cooperation, leadership, and peacebuilding among its member states. With Bala-Shagari at the helm, NAMYO is expected to continue its work in promoting sustainable development, international solidarity, and civic participation. Bala-Shagari's election is a testament to Nigeria's commitment to youth development and international cooperation.
Bala-Shagari's achievement has been welcomed by Nigerians and the international community. His election as NAMYO Chairperson is seen as a significant milestone in his career and a reflection of his leadership abilities. As he prepares to assume office, Bala-Shagari is expected to work closely with NAMYO members to promote youth cooperation and development.
Key points
- Muhammad Bello Bala-Shagari elected as NAMYO Chairperson for 2026-2029 term
- Bala-Shagari defeats candidates from Qatar, Tanzania, Uganda, and Uzbekistan in a competitive four-round election
- Bala-Shagari brings considerable experience in youth leadership and international engagement to the position
