Nigerian American
Young Adults (NAYA)

This burning zeal for the growth and well-being of our sons and daughters was the motivation for the formation of the Nigerian American Young Adults (NAYA), which is an association of young unmarried Nigerian Americans in USA between the ages of 18 and 35. NAYA members are mostly college and university students, recent graduates from school and professional in different careers. Majority of the members of NAYA joined the group at the same time their mothers joined NAMYAUSA. As mothers who care and support their children, NAMYAUSA have been sponsoring the events (end of year parties and picnics) of NAYA since its formation in 2010.

Even though NAYA is a branch of NAMYAUSA, it has its bylaws which guides her activities. The members elect their officers and appoint members to the different committees. These young adults have a functional website and active social presence via different social networks.

The relationship between NAMYAUSA and NAYA has matured over the years. Out of love and concern for their children, mothers can sometimes be overbearing. However, the phenomenal growth we have observed in our young adults ranging from their leadership to superb organizational acumen have encouraged us tremendously. They have displayed impressive maturity in carrying out their activities most notably their end of year party which draws over 200 young adults from the tri-state yearly. Consequently, we have allowed NAYA to pilot their affairs and become more autonomous. The vision of mother- child relationship is to gradually and systematically guide the child to become fully independent. To ensure this smooth transition to independence, we have put in place certain safeguards and rules to guarantee NAYA’s functions would always be in secure environments. Our roles as mothers would revolve around the following ideals:

1. Engage the youth frequently in discussions, listening attentively, advice accordingly and support morally and financially where applicable.
2. Inculcate in the youth the age long value of respect for elders.
3. Create an environment of peace and friendship to facilitate confidentiality.
4. Encourage the youth to be good citizens of his/her community, city and country.
5. Monitor and evaluate as well as provide feedback on activities relating to their annual events.