The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has celebrated former House of Representatives member, Hon. Shina Peller, for his outstanding contributions to youth empowerment and peacebuilding. The recognition comes as he marks the fourth anniversary of his conferment as the Ayedero of Yorubaland by the late Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adéyẹmí III, in August 2021.

In a congratulatory statement signed by NYCN President, Comrade Solomon Adodo, the council described Peller as a true partner in nation-building and a beacon of hope for young Nigerians. Adodo explained that the Ayedero title was “more than a decoration—it was a call to responsibility to guard peace, nurture harmony, and give hope in times of uncertainty,” praising Peller for living up to and even expanding the meaning of the role.

One of Peller’s notable contributions is the Ayedero Peace Tour, during which he visited insecurity-hit states such as Zamfara, Kebbi, Sokoto, and Niger. There, he engaged with traditional rulers, security agencies, and youth leaders, emphasizing dialogue and constructive solutions as tools to foster peace.

“Instead of choosing the comfort of celebration, you chose the hard road of intervention—listening to the grieving, engaging leaders, and standing against violence. That is leadership with courage,” Adodo noted.

Beyond peace efforts, Peller has also championed youth development through his Lead Generation Initiative (LGI), which has trained thousands of young Nigerians in leadership, governance, active citizenship, and communication. NYCN commended his vision of not just creating followers, but building a new class of responsible leaders.

In recognition of his contributions, NYCN had previously named Peller its Life Patron in 2022 and conferred on him the title of Grand Commander of the Nigerian Youth (GCNY) in 2023, in collaboration with other youth organizations.

“For us in NYCN, you are not merely a title holder. You are a motivator, a partner in the youth struggle, and a reassurance that public life can still be anchored on service,” Adodo said.

The NYCN concluded by wishing Peller continued success, noting that his example offers hope and inspiration for a generation determined to see Nigeria rise.