By Vivian Okejeme
As Nigeria prepares to mark its 66th Independence Anniversary, a bold national initiative is emerging with a clear and transformative mission: to allow Nigerians tell Nigeria’s story in their own voice.
De Ambassadors Global Network (DAGN), in partnership with the African University of Science and Technology and other strategic collaborators have planned a three-week nationwide media and civic engagement designed to inspire reflection, recognition, participation, and national pride.
According to the DAGN initiative represents a movement aimed at reshaping the narrative of Nigeria through the experiences, achievements, and aspirations of its people.
“For decades, Nigeria’s story has often been defined by fragmented headlines, political discourse, economic statistics, and external perceptions. Yet beyond those narratives exists another Nigeria — driven by resilience, innovation, creativity, enterprise, leadership, and hope”, the organisation said.
The network said a major highlight of the initiative is the Operation PVC , Nigeria National Digital Youth Talent Challenge, a nationwide platform designed to discover, elevate, and reward young Nigerian talent across creative, digital, sporting, and innovation sectors.
“Each category carries a powerful national tagline: Music (Nigeria Songs of Hope) Tagline: “Voices That Heal the Nation”. Football Freestyle
Tagline: “Skill Beyond the Game”
Basketball Freestyle Tagline: “Bounce the Future Forward”. Short Film (My Nigeria Story) Tagline: “Every Story Builds the Nation” Skits and Comedy
Tagline: “Laughing Through Our Reality”
Hair Ancestry Tagline: “Roots, Identity, Legacy”
Art Work Tagline: “Painting the Spirit of Nigeria” Fashion Design
Tagline: “Wear the Nation, Shape the Future” Tech and Innovation
Tagline: “Ideas That Power Tomorrow” DAGN said.
In a historic democratic engagement model, Nigerians across the country and the diaspora will participate directly in selecting winners.
All contestants will be showcased on national digital platforms and
Nigerians will decide through their votes.
DAGN said voting will determine finalists and category of winners adding that the approach will ensures transparency, inclusion, and nationwide ownership of the process.
Winners of the Nigeria National Digital Youth Talent Challenge will receive
Cash prizes and startup/creative funding support, Professional contracts with industry partners and collaborators, both National and international exposure opportunities.
“For the first time at this scale, Nigerians will actively participate in selecting and recognising individuals, organisations, and stories that represent the spirit of modern Nigeria.
“At the heart of the campaign is the Nigeria @66 Global Compendium — a prestigious national showcase featuring:
66 exceptional Nigerians at home
66 Nigerians in the diaspora
66 organisations contributing to national development
Beyond an Anniversary Celebration
Organisers describe Nigeria Celebrates @66 as more than a one-time anniversary campaign. It is envisioned as a long-term national platform integrating media, education, technology, civic participation, and strategic storytelling.
“Through its partnership with African University of Science and Technology, the initiative will further promote innovation-driven programming, youth development, and research-oriented engagement”, DAGN said.
The campaign is expected to be launched on May 30, 2026 and will be streamed live via zoom
