ADC Newsroom | August 1st, 2025

In a major step that reinforces the African Democratic Congress (ADC)’s commitment to youth inclusivity and merit-based leadership, Hauwa Yusuf has been officially nominated, appointed, and ratified as the Deputy National Secretary of the party. The decision was reached by the National Executive Committee (NEC) and announced during the National Political Consultative Group (North) meeting held in Abuja.

For Hauwa Yusuf, this appointment marks a personal milestone, but more importantly, it signals a broader call to action for young Nigerians to rise, participate, and take ownership of the country’s future. “For me, this is not about me, it’s about Nigeria,” she said at the forum, “and about placing leadership responsibilities and trust on the shoulders of the Nigerian youth.”

Known widely as a passionate advocate for youth and women in politics, Hauwa Yusuf is no stranger to breaking barriers. She previously made history as the first female National Youth Leader of the ADC party, a role through which she mobilized young people across the country and contributed to redefining youth engagement in democratic processes. Her elevation to the role of Deputy National Secretary is both a recognition of her tireless service and a statement of the ADC’s unwavering belief in the capability and potential of young people, especially young women.

During her address at the meeting in Abuja, Hauwa struck a deep chord with the crowd through her honest reflection on the current state of the nation.

“The youths are tired and angry about the state of the country. I, as a woman, am very angry too because it’s very sad and disheartening,” she said. “This appointment is not about me, but about the inclusion of the youths. It doesn’t matter where you’re coming from… we all want a Nigeria that works for us, for you, and me. Appointments should be based on merit. That is why the youths are happy about this coalition, and the fact that it has come to stay.”

Her remarks drew wide applause from party leaders, civil society participants, and young political aspirants present at the forum. For many in attendance, the moment served as a rallying cry for a new generation of Nigerians ready to lead with empathy, boldness, and integrity.

Kingsley Temitope, the ADC State Leader for Kogi, who also spoke at the event, described Hauwa Yusuf’s journey as “proof that ADC walks its talk.” He emphasized that while many political parties promise youth empowerment in theory, ADC is actively creating pathways for youth to take real leadership roles. “We’re not just talking about young people; we’re giving them the space, the structure, and the voice,” Temitope said. “Hauwa’s appointment is not a token, it’s a trust.”

Youth participation has long been a challenge in Nigeria’s political ecosystem, where decades of recycled leadership have left millions of young people disillusioned and disengaged. However, the ADC has continued to make inclusivity one of its foundational pillars. From adopting open-door registration for first-time voters to promoting female leadership at all levels, the party has consistently demonstrated that progress comes from widening the circle, not narrowing it.

Hauwa Yusuf’s ascent within the ADC structure also comes at a critical time in Nigeria’s democratic journey. With economic pressure mounting, security concerns growing, and trust in traditional institutions eroding, the country stands at a pivotal point. Hauwa’s role, both as a symbol and as a strategist, could play a transformative role in galvanizing the youth vote and strengthening grassroots mobilization.

As she takes on her new position, Hauwa has already called on young people across Nigeria to take ownership of the movement.

“Young persons must get involved by registering to join the party for active participation,” she urged.

With Hauwa Yusuf now at the helm as Deputy National Secretary, and with more youth voices gaining ground within the ADC, the 2027 elections may very well witness a shift in the country’s political narrative. If Hauwa’s appointment is anything to go by, the future of Nigerian politics might not just be young, it might finally begin to reflect the voices of those who have waited far too long to be heard.