The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has vowed to give Nigerian youths a stronger voice in governance, announcing a 35% affirmative action policy for young people in both elective and appointed positions.
The pledge was made in Abuja during a meeting between young members of the ADC National Working Committee and the party’s Interim National Chairman, Senator David Mark.
Speaking to Vanguard on Monday, ADC National Youth Leader, Balarabe Rufai, said the discussions focused on prioritising youth inclusion in governance and driving a generational shift in political leadership.
According to Rufai, the party aims to break away from “old political habits” and create a platform where young Nigerians can actively shape the nation’s future.
Senator Mark, while expressing full support for the initiative, said the combination of youthful energy and the wisdom of the older generation would be key to Nigeria’s progress.
“My generation is ready to pave the way for the younger generation. It’s a generational shift; we want to transfer power to the youth,” he stated.
He stressed that the party’s reform agenda would ensure that while young people take on leadership roles, they will be guided by the experience of older statesmen to achieve lasting results.
Rufai said the move was inspired by growing frustration among young Nigerians, particularly after the 2023 general elections.
“We’re giving them hope that the ADC is not business as usual. Our allegiance should be to Nigeria, to good governance, and to the question: ‘What can I contribute to my country?’ We’re changing the narrative,” he added.
The ADC also revealed plans to engage Nigerian youths in the diaspora, with activities scheduled for International Youth Day tomorrow (Tuesday). Rufai announced a live-streaming event to enable overseas participants to contribute ideas, emphasising that the ADC is more than just a Nigerian political party.
“The ADC is a pan-African movement. Nigeria is the hope for black democracy, and the ADC is here to champion that cause,” Rufai said.
