ADC Blasts FG Over Youth Budget and Failed Promises

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has issued a scathing criticism of the Federal Government, accusing it of insincerity and neglect towards Nigeria’s youth. During a strategic meeting with the Coalition for Nigerian Youths in Politics (CONYIP) at the party’s national headquarters in Abuja on Saturday, the ADC National Youth Leader, Balarabe Rufai, said the government’s claims of prioritising youth empowerment are contradicted by its actions.

Rufai pointed to the 2025 national budget, in which only ₦14 billion was allocated to the Ministry of Youth. He argued that such an allocation is symbolic at best, and grossly inadequate in addressing the multifaceted challenges confronting the Nigerian youth. “The Federal Government claims to prioritise youth empowerment, but their actions tell a different story,” Rufai lamented. “The student loan scheme is another example of failure—applicants are stranded, frustrated, and ignored.”

The ADC leader insisted that the youth deserve more than tokenism and rhetoric, urging Nigerian youths to become more vigilant and proactive in demanding real change. He emphasised that the current administration had failed to deliver any sustainable policy framework for youth development.

ADC Positions Itself as Unified Opposition Platform

In a bold political declaration, Balarabe Rufai said the ADC had emerged as the primary platform for a united opposition front ahead of the 2027 general elections. He claimed that the party had attracted the attention and support of key opposition heavyweights, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s Peter Obi, and former APC presidential aspirant Rotimi Amaechi.

“The ADC is no longer just an alternative party—it is the rallying point for all who believe in a united, just, and progressive Nigeria,” Rufai declared. “We are forming a coalition strong enough to unseat the Tinubu-led APC government in 2027.”

He attributed the ADC’s rising profile to its inclusive ideology, stating that the party stands apart from others by shunning ethnic, religious, or regional identities. “The ADC is not a northern or southern party. It is not a Muslim or Christian party. It is a party for ordinary Nigerians,” he said.

40% Youth Quota and a New Vision for Governance

Rufai further revealed that the ADC is committed to reserving 40% of both elected and appointed government positions for young Nigerians. He described the policy as central to the party’s transformative agenda and a direct response to the chronic marginalisation of the youth in governance.

“We cannot keep repeating the same cycle of exclusion and expect different results,” Rufai said. “We need a mind reset. Things cannot continue this way. Nigerian youths, we are here to change the narrative, not to enrich ourselves.”

He noted with concern that even within youth-focused programmes like the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), the ₦29 billion allocated this year was largely earmarked for administrative overheads rather than youth welfare. “This reflects the government’s priorities—bureaucracy over people,” he said.

Youth Political Engagement Key to National Transformation

Addressing members of CONYIP, Rufai urged Nigerian youths to reject political apathy and take ownership of their future by engaging actively in the political process. He said youth participation must go beyond social media activism and manifest in voting, monitoring elected officials, and contesting for political positions.

“Democracy is about participation and accountability. We will monitor our leaders, correct them, and speak up if they go astray. ADC will not operate like the others,” he assured.

He also called for a youth-driven accountability culture across all tiers of government. According to him, young people must become both the conscience and the engine of a new democratic Nigeria.

CONYIP Applauds ADC, Warns Against Youth Exploitation

In his remarks, the Convener of the Coalition for Nigerian Youths in Politics, Nnamdi Ezemagu, commended the ADC for prioritising youth inclusion and for appointing what he described as a capable and vocal youth leader. He stated that Nigerian youths are no longer willing to be political tools used for elections and dumped afterwards.

“The days of manipulation and tokenism are over,” Ezemagu said. “We will only support political platforms that recognise our power and are willing to share that power with us.”

He urged other political parties to emulate the ADC by creating policies and structures that promote genuine youth representation. “The ADC has set a worthy example. Let others follow if they are serious about a better Nigeria,” he added.