Target Youths to Win 2027 Elections – Shekarau Urges PDP.
By Bala Salihu Dawakin kudu
December 24, 2024
Former Governor of Kano State, Senator Ibrahim Shekarau, has urged the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to harness the potential of the country’s vibrant youth population as a strategic approach to winning most elective positions at both federal and state levels in the 2027 elections.
Shekarau made this call during the unveiling ceremony of the Board of Trustees of the Northern Forum of Zonal and State Youth Leaders of the PDP, held in Abuja on Monday. The event brought together party leaders and youth representatives to deliberate on repositioning the PDP for future electoral success.
In his address, Shekarau emphasized the importance of youth engagement, describing them as the backbone of the nation’s future. He urged them to rally around the PDP, which he described as a credible alternative to the current administration, to restore hope and tackle Nigeria’s numerous challenges.
“During the 16 years of PDP leadership, Nigeria witnessed more robust development, economic growth, and stability than what we experience today. The youth must take the lead in championing this cause to secure a better future,” Shekarau stated.
The former Education Minister also highlighted the significance of unity within the party, referencing his efforts in forming the League of Northern Democrats as a means of strengthening regional political engagement. He called on party members to emulate such initiatives to reinforce the PDP’s grassroots presence.
Aruwa Ismaila, Chairman of the Northern Forum of Zonal and State Youth Leaders of the PDP and North Central Zonal Youth Leader, explained that the inauguration of the Board of Trustees and social media platforms aims to create awareness and regain Nigerians’ trust in the PDP.
“Our social media handles will serve as a tool to reach the grassroots, showcase our vision, and revive the confidence of Nigerians in the PDP as the party of progress and development,” Ismaila said.
The event was attended by notable party figures, including Hon. Enemona Anyebe, Kogi State Chairman of PDP; Dr. Joel E.B. Adagadzu, North Central Zonal Organizing Secretary of PDP; Dr. Yunana Iliya, National Ex-Officio of PDP; and Hon. Shaba Ibrahim, a former House of Representatives member representing the inaugurated trustees.
The speakers unanimously identified the lack of internal democracy as a significant factor behind the party’s inability to regain power at the center. They, however, expressed optimism about the party’s ability to reunite and reclaim its position as Nigeria’s ruling party.
“We must put aside our differences, work together, and prioritize the party’s goals above personal interests. Unity and teamwork will propel PDP back to victory,” said Hon. Shaba Ibrahim.
Youth leaders from across the zones also appealed to PDP leaders at all levels to foster understanding and cooperation, emphasizing that the collective efforts of both young and seasoned members would guarantee the party’s success in the 2027 elections.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders to work tirelessly toward repositioning the PDP as a formidable force, with the youth playing a central role in shaping its future.
