Rise Naija: ADC Chiefs Launch Youth Platform

The “Rise up Naija” media campaign was launched on Thursday in Abuja amidst pomp and celebration.

The event is themed “Leadership that works for a Nigeria that works for all”.

It was attended by dignitaries and youth supporters, mostly members of the African Democratic Party (ADC) from across Nigeria.

He also attended the unveiling of its logo, Blueprint.ng reports.

Speaking at the launch, former National President of the ADC, Chief Ralph Nwosu, commended the youths for always uplifting Nigeria in all aspects of life, which he said includes technology, sports, music, entertainment, among others.

Nwosu said: “Now that you are entering politics, I believe your champion spirit will help shape the narratives of 2027 and help us correct the mistakes of the past.

“Let me remind you that in everything you do, expect challenges but always hone your skills so you can meet them head-on.”

Furthermore, conveying its message of goodwill, the Mutawallen Borno,
Alhaji Kashim Immam praised the organizers and ADC members for the launch.

“I am so encouraged that, with the vast majority of our vibrant young people engaged in this project, this country is blessed to me.

“We are the most educated and have abundant human resources, and the ADC, our party, for example, has a model for the youth and for Nigeria that works for everyone.

“Anyone who aspires to our party must strive to do things differently. I am happy that the youth of our party have risen to the challenges,” he said.

The party’s national publicity secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdulahi, while delivering a remark, regretted that the kind of politics played in the past was the reason for the country’s myriad challenges, saying, “it is now clear to all of us what has led to the inability to think about what will happen to the country after the older generation leaves.”

Abdullahi, who described the event as historic and eventful, added: “Age and certificate are not credentials, but whatever we do with our lives building legacies like Ahmadu Bello, Obafemi Awolowo and Nnamdi Azikwe that will outlive us is important.

“In the ADC we are drawing the line and I have no doubt that our party represents the future of Nigeria because it is the only egalitarian party where people can fulfill their potential.

“I believe the rise of Naija, which started today, will also anchor itself on ethics and principles like the ADC.”

Ladan Saliu, in his speech, reminded the youths that former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, pursued and led Nigeria out of war at an early age and ended up achieving what successors older than him failed to achieve.

“But there is a ray of hope among legions of courageous young people who yearn for best practices in politics and governance. The inspiration for me is already growing,” he said.

Saliu Tanko Yakasai, former media aide to the Kano State governor, thanked party leaders for their encouragement, charging organizers to draw on their words of wisdom to make the movement work.

“The younger population has become spectators of a game in which we are supposed to be the driving force. I am an advocate of intergenerational leadership with a fusion of the older generation for proper alignment in the future, in order to lead against young people with inexperience or the knowledge needed to govern,” he said.

Aliu Audu, one of the promoters of the Rise up Naija (RUN) movement, noted that for too long there have been challenges, but the Nigerian spirit is yet to die.

RUN, according to him, is built on these premises.

“Beyond politics, RUN is not conceived as a movement for spectators but for Nigerians, youth, artisans etc. who believe that Nigeria can function again and can reconnect with governance and raise a new generation of responsible leaders.

“If you believe that youth can lead, overcome divisions and choose the nation, then this movement is for you so that Nigeria can work for us,” he said.

Umueze Chizara Desire, dwelling further, said it would trigger a national awakening.

“This movement was built on the belief that Nigeria must work for every Nigeria.

“RUN is based on hope. On courage and faith. It is a digital revolution for workers, professionals, students and creators who are tired of Nigeria not working for them.

“RUN wants a Nigeria that works, where institutions can grow and a place where a new political culture can be built and where politics serves as a service and not simply survival,” he said.

He then enjoined Nigerians to stand up and run with hope.

Ezeokoli Chineze Jack urged Nigerian youths to embrace initiatives and their projections.

“We are building a sustainable, long-lasting institution,” Jack said.