KUBWA, Abuja — 13 September 2026 — More than 227 young people from Salesian communities across Nigeria gathered at St Dominic Savio Community, Kubwa, Abuja, from 9 to 13 September for the annual Salesian Youth Movement (SYM) Congress of the ANN Province.
Held under the theme, “Do whatever he tells you: Believers free to serve,” inspired by the Rector Major’s Strenna, the five-day congress brought together young people for faith formation, personal development, vocation discernment, leadership, community life and service.
The programme combined prayer and formation with opportunities for dialogue, recreation and cultural exchange. Participants began the congress with Adoration, Evening Prayer and the official welcome ceremony before entering into the main programme of formation.
Listening to Christ and learning to serve
Faith formation was at the heart of the congress. One of the principal sessions, “Listening to Christ in Everyday Life: A Path to Loving Service,” invited participants to reflect on how faith can shape their everyday choices and their readiness to serve others. The session was followed by group discussions, giving young people space to engage the theme together and relate it to their own experiences.
The congress also addressed issues affecting young people today. A dedicated session on mental health, peer pressure and addiction, facilitated by the Province’s trauma team, created space for participants to consider personal wellbeing and the challenges that can influence young people’s decisions and relationships.
Another significant formation session brought together the SYM and the Association of Salesian Cooperators (ASC) for a panel discussion on shared mission with the laity. The session, “Bridging the gap between ASC and SYM,” focused on the importance of collaboration in living and carrying forward the Salesian mission.
Prayer, vocation and community
Prayer remained woven throughout the congress programme, with participants taking part in Morning and Evening Prayer, the Rosary, Adoration, confession and Holy Mass.
The vocation dimension also featured prominently. A vocation animation and opening forum on Saturday morning provided an opportunity for young people to reflect on vocation and the different ways they may respond to God’s call. It was quite a significant and enriching moment as they had a forum with the two Salesians that made their final vows during the Holy Mass that morning: Rodgers Chabala and Kingsley Nwankwo.
The congress also recognised the importance of friendship and community in youth ministry. Games, social activities and an outing to Abuja City Centre allowed participants from different communities to interact beyond the formal sessions.
After the Holy Mass on Saturday, the day also featured a Trade Fair, where young people showcased their creativity and practical skills. The congress concluded its programme with a Cultural Night, bonfire and supper.
The Provincial of the ANN Province, members of his council and Youth Directors from most of the Salesian communities were present during the congress, accompanying the young people throughout the gathering.
The organisers expressed gratitude to God for the gift of the young people and thanked the Province, the Provincial Youth Ministry Delegate, Rev. Fr Felix Olamide, SDB, and the Youth Ministry team for organising the congress.
With the 2026 gathering concluded, preparations now look towards SYM Congress 2027, which will be hosted by Mary Help of Christians Community, Akure.
The congress in Kubwa has once again brought together young people around faith, friendship, formation and service — continuing the Salesian tradition of accompanying the young in their journey of growth and responsibility.