**Party rolls out affirmative action for women, youth engagement, e-registration drive
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) is positioning itself as a new political alternative, focusing on inclusion, internal restructuring, and broad-based mobilisation to attract Nigerians disillusioned with existing parties.
At its inaugural National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Abuja, party National Leader Seriake Dickson outlined foundational resolutions aimed at strengthening internal democracy, widening participation, and preparing the party for future elections.
“At our very first meeting, we have ratified a very important resolution—affirmative action for women,” Dickson said, directing all state and local party structures to harmonise their systems to ensure meaningful involvement of women.
He also prioritised youth inclusion, noting: “We have competent young people all over the country, and this is their party. They must be included.” The inclusion framework extends to persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups, reflecting a deliberate attempt to build a representative political platform.
The party is also intensifying grassroots mobilisation through its electronic registration system, with each ward mandated to register between 300 and 500 verifiable members. Dickson stressed that electoral success would depend on engagement at the ward and polling unit levels rather than financial inducements.
“This is an opportunity for those who feel dissatisfied, sidelined, or constrained in their current parties to be part of something new and inclusive,” Dickson added, positioning the NDC as a stable ideological platform in contrast to perceived uncertainty in other political parties.
He described the party’s vision as rooted in inclusivity, fairness, justice, and national integration, warning that Nigeria’s size and strategic importance require a competitive political environment.
Addressing the meeting, NDC National Chairman Moses Zuwogeh pledged transparent, accountable leadership and urged members to embrace unity, discipline, and inclusiveness. He also encouraged officials to expand outreach and strengthen grassroots engagement.
With its focus on inclusion, digital membership expansion, and outreach to disaffected politicians, the NDC aims to redefine political participation and establish itself as a credible force ahead of nationwide elections.
Political observers note that the party’s early organisational framework and messaging could significantly shape its trajectory, depending on how effectively it balances rapid expansion with internal discipline.
The NEC meeting ratified the leadership through a voice vote, retaining Senator Moses Zuwogeh and other protem officials, who will guide the party toward substantive leadership elections after its convention.
