FDPC hails emergence of Rufai as ADC national youth leader
Kola Oyelere Kano
The Foundation for Democracy and Positive Change in Nigeria (FDPC) has welcomed the emergence of Comrade Balarabe Rufa’i as the National Youth Leader of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), calling it a major step toward meaningful youth involvement in Nigerian politics.
However,the group said ” This
moment is not just a victory—it is a bold declaration that Nigerian youth are ready to lead,” t
According to a statement signed by
its President, Christopher Lekan, the Foundation described Rufa’i’s emergence as more than a personal win, but a sign that young Nigerians are ready to take up leadership roles with seriousness.
“Your emergence reflects a generational shift. It proves that leadership can rise from the people, powered by integrity, sacrifice, and service.”he said
The group noted that Rufa’i’s rise comes at a time when more than 70 percent of Nigeria’s population is under the age of 30, yet young people remain underrepresented in decision-making.
“Since your emergence, ADC’s youth engagement has surged by 300 percent. Volunteers have signed up in 18 states within a week. ADC conversations are now dominating student unions, online forums, and youth townhalls,” Lekan said.
FDPC added ,”some of the challenges young Nigerians face, including high unemployment, rising food prices, poor education, and a widening gap between politicians and ordinary citizens.”
“You represent that difference,” the Foundation stated. “You bring clean leadership, credibility, and a vast grassroots network across all six geopolitical zones. You are not tied to the politics of patronage. You are part of a movement that demands results, not excuses.”
The statement also quoted the late Maitama Sule: “Leadership is not about privilege, it is about responsibility,” adding that Rufa’i’s election reflects a choice of service over personal gain.
FDPC listed areas where it expects Rufa’i to make an impact—calling on him to go beyond symbolic representation and take concrete action to fight corruption, improve education and job access, and challenge vote-buying during elections.
“Your mission now is clear: fight for youth inclusion beyond tokenism, lead the charge against corrupt constituency project abuse, push for education, jobs, and dignity in labor, and stand firm against vote-buying and rigging,” the statement said.
Concluding, the group expressed support for Rufa’i, saying his leadership has sparked renewed interest among young Nigerians in political participation.
“You have reignited a national conversation about what leadership should look like. You have inspired a wave of young people to believe in party politics again. ADC is no longer a side note—it is the rallying ground for the future,” the Foundation said.
“Congratulations once again, Comrade Balarabe Rufa’i. You have restored our pride. You have shown us that the future is not coming—it is already here—with you.”