Comr. Nobleiyke Edoziem Calls for Youth-Led Political Renewal at the Imo ADC Youth Summit 2025
By Kelechi Ugo
The Imo State Youth Leader of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Comrade Nobleiyke Edoziem, has called on Nigerian youths to rise above political manipulation and take their rightful place in leadership, emphasizing that the era of recycled politicians using young people for electoral gain must end.
Comr. Edoziem made this passionate declaration while delivering his welcome address at the Imo ADC Youth Summit 2025, held at Amaechi Hall, Rockview Hotel, Owerri. The summit, themed “Don’t Let Anyone Look Down on You Because You Are Young” (1 Timothy 4:12), brought together young leaders, party members, and development advocates from across the state.
Speaking to a vibrant audience, Edoziem expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead what he described as “a generation of visionary and determined youths hungry for a better Imo and a greater Nigeria.”
“We are not just tomorrow’s leaders anymore; we are today’s force of action — the living expression of our collective dreams and the engine of progress,” he declared.
He lamented that for decades, youths have been instrumental to the rise of politicians who, after elections, abandon them to face unemployment, insecurity, and poverty.
“Every election year, they come with their structures powered by us — the youths — but once they win, they forget us. That cycle must end,” Edoziem said. “It’s time we use our structures for ourselves, not for them anymore.”
The youth leader outlined key areas requiring urgent intervention:
Infrastructure development — roads, electricity, healthcare, education, and telecommunications.
Job creation and youth employment.
Agricultural and industrial growth.
Economic empowerment and innovation.
Quality education and vocational training.
He challenged Nigerian youths to rethink their role models and redefine their values:
“The people you admire shape your ambition and destiny. If your role model stands for integrity, hard work, and service, you are already halfway to greatness. But if you idolize corruption and mediocrity, you’re walking a path of destruction.”
Edoziem also criticized the growing influence of negative social trends among the youth — including drug abuse, idleness, and political thuggery — calling instead for discipline, creativity, and visionary leadership.
“We must prove that Nigerian youths can lead with integrity and competence. This is our time to rebuild, not to destroy,” he urged.
In his closing remarks, the ADC youth leader reminded participants that Nigeria’s founding fathers — such as Nnamdi Azikiwe, Odumegwu Ojukwu, and Olusegun Obasanjo — all began their leadership journeys in their youth.
“If anyone doubts the capacity of young people, point them to Burkina Faso’s president, a young visionary transforming his nation. We, too, can lead if we believe, act, and remain true to our calling,” Edoziem concluded.
“Long live Imo youths! Long live Nigerian youths! Long live the African Democratic Congress! It must surely end in thanksgiving".
