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Youth Diplomacy: Babcock UN Simulation Opens 10th Anniversary Edition

Babcock University holds BIMUN opening plenary, welcomes former Nigerian presidential candidate Peter Obi who called on the youth to prioritize integrity and discipline. This year's conference marks a decade of BIMUN (Babcock International Model United Nations)

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By Busari Kehinde Moridiyat, BBN World News Desk (International Press Committee)

Ilishan Remo, Nigeria — Student delegates, academics, and diplomats have gathered in Ogun State for the official opening of the 10th Session of the Babcock International Model United Nations (BIMUN) conference.

At a Glance

  • The Event: Delegates representing 185 member states are attending the five-day diplomatic simulation in Ilishan-Remo from 2 to 6 August 2026.
  • The Keynote: Former Nigerian presidential candidate Peter Obi called on young participants to prioritize integrity, discipline, and practical governance outcomes over political rhetoric.
  • The Context: The conference marks a decade of student diplomatic training against a backdrop of socioeconomic and governance challenges across the region.

Focus on Leadership and Governance

Addressing the opening session in the BUTH Auditorium, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi emphasized that public leadership must be measured by direct societal impact. He argued that long-term development across emerging economies depends on sustained investment in education, public health, and poverty reduction, urging delegates to prepare themselves for future leadership roles through discipline and responsible governance.

“Leadership is about impact felt by the people, not just noise,” Mr. Obi told the assembly.

A Decade of Student Diplomacy

Organisers state that the annual conference, established in 2017, aims to equip young participants with practical skills in international negotiation, public policy, and multilateral diplomacy.

Babcock University Vice Chancellor Professor Olutunde Ojewole noted that the platform has hosted more than 5,400 participants from 56 countries over its ten-year history, urging delegates to pursue leadership rooted in service and institutional responsibility.

Goodwill messages were also delivered by representatives of the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC), Abuja and the BIMUN Secretariat, underscoring the role of youth participation in international cooperation.

Deliberations and Next Steps

Throughout the week, participants will take part in simulated United Nations committee sessions, debating key international issues including global security, climate adaptation, human rights, and sustainable development.

Delegates are expected to negotiate policy frameworks and draft formal resolutions using established UN procedures before the proceedings conclude on Thursday, 6 August.

BBN World News Desk will provide objective daily summaries as committee negotiations progress.


This article was produced by a delegate of the International Press Committee at BIMUN26, simulating international press coverage. It does not represent the named press organization or the editorial voice of The Babcock Torch.