By Muhammad Mamman
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has vowed to champion a transparent, inclusive, and youth-driven political agenda, positioning itself as a beacon of hope for Nigeria’s disillusioned young generation and progressive thinkers. Speaking at the 2025 International Youth Day celebration in Abuja on Tuesday, Senator David Mark, the ADC National Chairman, outlined the party’s commitment to rejecting political imposition, privilege, and unaccountable governance. Represented by Salihu Lukman, former APC National Vice Chairman (North-West), Mark addressed an audience of political leaders, youth advocates, and activists at the event, themed ‘Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond’.
In a stirring address, Mark emphasised that the ADC’s revitalised mission would centre on unity, courage, and service to Nigeria. “Under my leadership, the ADC will uphold true democratic values, rejecting imposition, special privileges, and politics devoid of accountability. Internal democracy, transparency, and fairness will guide our every action,” he declared. A cornerstone of this vision is the party’s pledge to reserve 35% of leadership roles for women and ensure significant representation for Nigerians under 40. “The ADC is your home. We are opening our doors to the next generation, not as a token gesture, but as a steadfast commitment,” Mark affirmed.
Comrade Balarabe Rufa’i, ADC National Youth Leader, delivered an impassioned call to action, urging Nigerian youths to demand accountability and seize their place in shaping the nation’s future. “If we, the youth of Nigeria, cannot transform our communities, we will never transform our country. The ADC is ready to offer young Nigerians a seat at the table—not as ornaments, but as decision-makers,” he asserted. Rufa’i highlighted the pressing challenges of youth unemployment, insecurity, and declining education, accusing successive governments of neglecting these issues in what he described as a “moral failing”. He outlined the ADC’s plans to tackle these crises through policies focused on job creation, educational reform, and community-led security initiatives. “We will restore security not with empty promises, but by empowering local structures and addressing root causes,” he added.
Rufa’i also called for unity, urging young Nigerians to transcend ethnic and regional divides. “If a 25-year-old in Bauchi joins hands with a 30-year-old in Ibadan and a 22-year-old in Enugu, no political gatekeeper can stand in our way,” he said.
The event featured a keynote address by Dr Mani Ibrahim Ahmad, who, alongside Sir Abubakar Malami’s paper presentation, underscored the importance of legal reforms and governance in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). “We urge you to be architects of change, not bystanders. The ADC’s welfare-driven ideology aligns with a Nigeria where every young person actively shapes policy, not merely receives it,” Ahmad stated. He encouraged youths to use advocacy and their voices to hold leaders accountable and secure representation in local governance.
A panel discussion, featuring Dr Ladan Salihu, Hon Abdullahi Hussaini Maibasira, and Jackie Wayas, further explored strategies for youth empowerment and systemic reform. The event underscored the ADC’s determination to redefine Nigerian politics by placing young people at the heart of its agenda.
