01/09/2026
REPORT ON THE CYON-CADEK TWO-DAY LEADERSHIP SEMINAR 2026
Theme: “Leading in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: Faith, Ethics and the Future of Leadership”
The Catholic Youth Organization of Nigeria Ekwulobia Diocese under the leadership of Comrade Francisco Nebolisa Okodo, successfully concluded a two-day Leadership Seminar held from 27th to 29th August 2026 at St. Peter’s Secondary School, Achina.
The seminar was organized as part of the Diocese commitment to leadership formation, capacity building and the development of responsible young leaders, with particular attention to understanding and making positive use of Artificial Intelligence in today's rapidly changing world.
The seminar recorded the participation of 28 CYONND delegates, representing the various parishes of the Deanery. Although St. Michael’s Parish, Nanka was not represented, the overall participation was encouraging, with delegates from other parishes except Holy Trinity Parish Nanka that didn't show up after registration but others were actively involved throughout the programme.
The event also had the presence and contributions of distinguished personalities, including Dr. Chibueze Ofobuike, Mayor-Elect, Aguata LGA; Hon. Kingsley Ezeagu; and Dr. Nelson Omenugha, Special Adviser to the Governor on Youth Reformation.
Their presence added value and significance to the leadership formation programme.
The seminar featured a variety of activities designed to provide the delegates with both theoretical knowledge and practical leadership experience.
Activities included prayers and the opening session, lectures, leadership talks, interactive sessions, group discussions, questions and answers, games, exchange of gifts and the closing ceremony.
The sessions provided the delegates with opportunities to engage directly with the facilitators, ask questions, share ideas and reflect on the responsibilities that come with leadership.
Keynote Address and Spiritual Formation
The spiritual foundation of the programme was strengthened through the contribution of Rev. Fr. Peter Nwaobodo, Chaplain, whose homily highlighted the qualities expected of a good and responsible leader.
He reminded the delegates that genuine leadership must be rooted in good character, responsibility, service and the right values.
The keynote session was delivered by Rev. Fr. Michael Muonwe, who did justice to the theme:
“Leading in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: Faith, Ethics and the Future of Leadership.”
The session exposed the delegates to the changing realities of leadership in an age where Artificial Intelligence is increasingly becoming part of everyday life.
Major Lessons from the Seminar
One of the major outcomes of the seminar was a deeper understanding of Artificial Intelligence and its responsible application.
The delegates were encouraged to understand AI not simply as a technological development, but as a tool that must be used with wisdom, faith, ethics and responsibility.
Among the major lessons were:
How to make better and more positive use of Artificial Intelligence.
Understanding the opportunities AI provides for individuals and organizations.
Recognizing the negative and potential harmful aspects of Artificial Intelligence.
The importance of ethics and responsible decision-making when using AI.
The qualities and responsibilities of a good leader.
The need for leaders to continuously learn, adapt and develop themselves.
The importance of combining technological advancement with strong moral and Christian values.
The seminar therefore emphasized that the leaders of tomorrow must not only understand technology, they must also possess the wisdom and character to use it responsibly.
We are grateful to God that the programme was conducted without any major challenge or difficulty.
The activities went on smoothly, and the cooperation of the delegates, organizers and all those involved contributed greatly to the successful completion of the programme.
On behalf of CYONND, sincere appreciation goes to CYON CADEK and its executives for providing the platform and support that made this leadership formation possible.
We equally appreciate our Chaplains, Rev. Fr. Peter Nwaobodo and Rev. Fr. John Ifanyichukwu Umenadiri, for their spiritual guidance, support and commitment to the growth of the young people entrusted to their care.
Our profound appreciation also goes to all the Parish Priests of Nanka Deanery for their continued support of CYON and for encouraging their youths to participate in programmes aimed at their formation and development.
We are equally grateful to our distinguished guests and facilitators for sharing their knowledge, experience and time with us.
Finally, a special commendation goes to the 28 delegates who attended and actively participated in the seminar. Your presence, discipline, cooperation and enthusiasm were a major part of the success recorded.
Conclusion
The CYONND Two-Day Leadership Seminar 2026 was more than an academic or leadership gathering. It was an opportunity to prepare young people for the realities of leadership in a rapidly changing world.
The theme challenged us to understand that the future of leadership will require more than titles and positions. It will require knowledge, adaptability, faith, ethics, discipline, courage and a genuine spirit of service.
As CYONND continues to invest in the formation of its young people, it is our hope that the knowledge and values gained from this seminar will not remain within the walls of St. Peter’s Secondary School, Achina.
Rather, may the delegates return to their respective parishes and communities as better-informed, responsible and more purposeful young leaders, ready to positively influence those around them.
Once again, we thank God Almighty for the success of the programme and everyone who contributed in one way or another towards making it a success.
Congratulations to all the delegates, and congratulations to CYONND.
For God and Youth.REPORT ON THE CYONND TWO-DAY LEADERSHIP SEMINAR 2026
Theme: “Leading in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: Faith, Ethics and the Future of Leadership”
The Catholic Youth Organization of Nigeria, Nanka Deanery (CYONND), successfully concluded a two-day Leadership Seminar held from 27th to 29th August 2026 at St. Peter’s Secondary School, Achina.
The seminar was organized as part of the Deanery's commitment to leadership formation, capacity building and the development of responsible young leaders, with particular attention to understanding and making positive use of Artificial Intelligence in today's rapidly changing world.
Attendance
The seminar recorded the participation of 28 CYONND delegates, representing the various parishes of the Deanery. Although St. Michael’s Parish, Nanka was not represented, the overall participation was encouraging, with delegates from the other parishes actively involved throughout the programme.
The event also had the presence and contributions of distinguished personalities, including Dr. Chibueze Ofobuike, Mayor-Elect, Aguata LGA; Hon. Kingsley Ezeagu; and Dr. Nelson Omenugha, Special Adviser to the Governor on Youth Reformation.
Their presence added value and significance to the leadership formation programme.
Programme Highlights
The seminar featured a variety of activities designed to provide the delegates with both theoretical knowledge and practical leadership experience.
Activities included prayers and the opening session, lectures, leadership talks, interactive sessions, group discussions, questions and answers, games, exchange of gifts and the closing ceremony.
The sessions provided the delegates with opportunities to engage directly with the facilitators, ask questions, share ideas and reflect on the responsibilities that come with leadership.
Keynote Address and Spiritual Formation
The spiritual foundation of the programme was strengthened through the contribution of Rev. Fr. Peter Nwaobodo, Chaplain, whose homily highlighted the qualities expected of a good and responsible leader.
He reminded the delegates that genuine leadership must be rooted in good character, responsibility, service and the right values.
The keynote session was delivered by Rev. Fr. Michael Muonwe, who did justice to the theme:
«“Leading in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: Faith, Ethics and the Future of Leadership.”»
The session exposed the delegates to the changing realities of leadership in an age where Artificial Intelligence is increasingly becoming part of everyday life.
Major Lessons from the Seminar
One of the major outcomes of the seminar was a deeper understanding of Artificial Intelligence and its responsible application.
The delegates were encouraged to understand AI not simply as a technological development, but as a tool that must be used with wisdom, faith, ethics and responsibility.
Among the major lessons were:
- How to make better and more positive use of Artificial Intelligence.
- Understanding the opportunities AI provides for individuals and organizations.
- Recognizing the negative and potential harmful aspects of Artificial Intelligence.
- The importance of ethics and responsible decision-making when using AI.
- The qualities and responsibilities of a good leader.
- The need for leaders to continuously learn, adapt and develop themselves.
- The importance of combining technological advancement with strong moral and Christian values.
The seminar therefore emphasized that the leaders of tomorrow must not only understand technology; they must also possess the wisdom and character to use it responsibly.
Conduct and Participation of Delegates
The conduct of the delegates throughout the programme deserves special commendation.
At the beginning of the seminar, the delegates were encouraged to respect and abide by the guidelines provided by the organizers, with particular emphasis on the need to protect the good name and reputation of CYON.
The delegates responded positively to this call.
They participated actively in the various activities, respected instructions, and demonstrated cooperation whenever their attention was called to matters concerning the smooth running of the programme.
This level of discipline and participation contributed significantly to the success of the seminar.
Challenges
We are grateful to God that the programme was conducted without any major challenge or difficulty.
The activities went on smoothly, and the cooperation of the delegates, organizers and all those involved contributed greatly to the successful completion of the programme.
Appreciation
On behalf of CYONND, sincere appreciation goes to CYON CADEK and its executives for providing the platform and support that made this leadership formation possible.
We equally appreciate our Chaplains, Rev. Fr. Peter Nwaobodo and Rev. Fr. John Ifanyichukwu Umenadiri, for their spiritual guidance, support and commitment to the growth of the young people entrusted to their care.
Our profound appreciation also goes to all the Parish Priests of Nanka Deanery for their continued support of CYON and for encouraging their youths to participate in programmes aimed at their formation and development.
We are equally grateful to our distinguished guests and facilitators for sharing their knowledge, experience and time with us.
To our sponsors and donors, we say a heartfelt thank you. Your contributions and support helped make the programme possible, and we do not take your generosity for granted.
In Conclusion
The CYONND Two-Day Leadership Seminar 2026 was more than an academic or leadership gathering. It was an opportunity to prepare young people for the realities of leadership in a rapidly changing world.
The theme challenged us to understand that the future of leadership will require more than titles and positions. It will require knowledge, adaptability, faith, ethics, discipline, courage and a genuine spirit of service.
As CYON continues to invest in the formation of its young people, it is our hope that the knowledge and values gained from this seminar will not remain within the walls of St. Peter’s Secondary School, Achina.
Rather, may the delegates return to their respective parishes and communities as better-informed, responsible and more purposeful young leaders, ready to positively influence those around them.
Once again, we thank God Almighty for the success of the programme and everyone who contributed in one way or another towards making it a success.
Congratulations to all the 28 delegates, and congratulations to CYONND.
For God and For Youth.
Vitalis Chukwuemeka Ezeibe. CYONND president.
(1/9/2026)