Youth Party Hosts Historic National Convention in Abuja
The Youth Party conducted a landmark national convention in Abuja on Saturday, as delegates united to elect new national officers, ratify a 26-state assembly, and establish an ambitious agenda for the upcoming 2027 general elections.
Held at the Wetland Hotel, the convention attracted participants from across the nation, and party leaders hailed the event as a pivotal moment for their expanding political movement.
A significant highlight was the formal ratification of district, municipal, and state assemblies across 26 states, illustrating the party’s strengthening grassroots organization nationwide.
Delegates also endorsed all resolutions made by the National Executive Committee (NEC) since the previous Congress and witnessed the swearing-in of the newly elected Executive Committee.
The election of the new NEC took center stage, with Abdulrahman Abubakar from Niger State appointed as the new national chairman. Sadiq Abu from Ogun State was elected as Deputy National Chairman, while Sope Durodola from Oyo State became the National Treasurer. Additionally, Helen Addo from Kogi State was named National Secretary, and Malam Mujahid Ahmad, Yahaya Maibe, and Adeolu Dara were sworn in as National Executive Officers I, II, and III, respectively.
In his acceptance address, Abubakar reiterated the party’s dedication to the principle of “One Member, One Vote” (OMOV) and promised to govern with transparency, accountability, and inclusivity. He expressed his gratitude for the position, affirming his commitment to fostering a new era of politics untainted by ethnic or religious biases, while advocating for equal access to education, healthcare, and housing for all Nigerians.
The newly elected chairman acknowledged the long-term challenges that lie ahead. He stated, “This is a marathon, not a sprint.” He recognized the hurdles facing the party, including visibility, funding, communication, mobilization, and internal discipline. Abubakar also identified five immediate priorities for the new leadership: ensuring free and fair primary elections, revising the party constitution and manifesto, assessing key performance indicators from the board, strengthening party discipline, and achieving at least ten seats in the 2027 elections.
Delegates and observers expressed significant optimism regarding the party’s trajectory, commending the transparent and inclusive nature of the convention. One independent observer noted that the event showcased the potential of youth-led democracy to be organized and regionally inclusive. A representative from Gombe State characterized the ratification campaign as a true testament to democratic principles, and the election of Helen Addo as Secretary received a standing ovation from female delegates.
Commenting on the convention’s significance, the party’s communications director, Solomon Oyekunle, emphasized that the gathering transcended mere political formalities. “Today was not merely a tournament; it was a sacred contract,” he declared. “Every officer sworn in today embodies the aspirations of millions of Nigerians who have been led to believe that politics is not for them. We are here to prove otherwise.”
As the convention wrapped up in the early evening, party members departed with renewed confidence in the Youth Party’s mission and its preparations for the 2027 election campaign.
