The Boys Brigade Asssociation of Nigeria has pledged to continue to instil the spirit of patriotism and discipline amongst the country’s youths.

Speaking Wednesday during the celebration of the group’s Founders Day, the President of the organisation in Anambra State, Mr. Ben Osaka, noted that it has been consistent in moulding young minds and grooming them for excellence in all spheres of national life as well as in the area of humanitarian service. The event was marked at the All Saints Cathedral in the commercial city of Onitsha.

Osaka, a Boys Brigade member since 1972, hailed the church for inculcating people with the fear of God. He called on government at all levels to partner with the organisation and other worthy NGOs in the country to build a Nigeria of our dream.

Osaka said: “It is our founder’s day and so far it has been so good. Our principles which include patriotism, discipline, excellence and the gospel of Jesus Christ have also not been in doubt.

“By our constitution the President is our Grand Patron and we are doing a lot that government can equally complement. Most of the soundest minds, including myself, are ready to continue to work with all governments.”

Earlier in his speech, the Archbishop on the Niger, His Lordship Rev. Dr. Chiedozie Nwokolo, described Nigeria as a nation in search of saints. He decribed saints as those who lead a worthy life, leaving behind memories in the minds of people and are at peace with God on the world beyond.

He prayed God to avert the wickedness in the minds of the people and help them to do good so that they can attain good human society.

In his words, “Examplary life is what we need in Nigeria just as Christ did. We need people we can emulate their lifestyle as well as people in the personality mould of late Nelson Mandela. It is only righteousness that can exalt a nation.

“I thank the Boys Brigade for their discipline, self sacrifice, pursuit of knowledge and the will for godly life. They have carried on very well since their arrival in Nigeria by way of taking care of children from the cradle to cadet officer and patron level. Their impact in the society, the church and the country at large has been great.”

Highlights of the occasion included presentation of awards to teams and individuals that excelled in the state wide quiz competition.

The first prize went to Awka Battalion Council; Onitsha Batallion Coulcil took came second while Nkpor Battalion Council went with the third prize.

Master Chukwudi Ezeifue from Onitsha Battalion Council emerged the overall best individual and was presented with a Bible as the prize.

The Boys Brigade Association of Nigeria was founded in 1983 by a Scottish teacher, Sir William Smith.

•Photo shows Boys Brigade during a march past.