The Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), Professor Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu, has called on African youths to deepen collaboration in tackling the continent's shared development challenges, speaking on Tuesday after receiving the Thomas Sankara Pan African Selfless Leadership Award for Excellence in Abuja.

The Youth Partnership for Africa's Development (YPAD) presented the award to Ribadu at the NUC headquarters, citing his contributions to education, public service and national development as the basis for the recognition.

Ribadu stressed that Africa's development challenges transcend national boundaries and that meaningful progress depends on young people across the continent aligning around common goals. He also commended YPAD for its work in youth development, particularly its efforts to combat drug abuse and promote entrepreneurship through capacity building programmes.

YPAD President Henry Nwankwo, who presented the award, stated that Ribadu's leadership record and commitment to service position him as a worthy example for young Africans.

Ribadu dedicated the award to the National Universities Commission, the Nigerian University system and the country's youth population, expressing that the honour would strengthen his resolve to maintain excellence and service delivery.