On Tuesday in Abuja, the Policy and Manifesto Committee of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) submitted its interim report to the National Chairman of the party, David Mark.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) confirms that this committee was formed in February to create the party's manifesto and develop policies that cater to the general populace.
John Odigie-Oyegun, the chairman of the committee, mentioned that their objective was to establish a governance framework that transitions from mere rhetoric to concrete action, allowing the party to position itself as a government-in-waiting.
He elaborated that the report is a significant step towards presenting a viable alternative government through clear policy frameworks, structured approaches, and preparation for leadership at the national level.
Odigie-Oyegun stated that the committee's research included inputs from eleven subcommittees, analyzing various sectors, which led to the formulation of an interim report and policy principles that provide a cohesive strategic plan for national advancement.
“The core of this strategy is to re-establish a government that places citizens at its center, ensuring that institutions work for the people, the economy generates jobs, security reinforces communities, and governance yields tangible benefits,” he said.
He noted that the committee had successfully concluded this initial phase, submitting their full proposals and now focusing on harmonizing these efforts, engaging stakeholders nationwide, and refining these frameworks into a credible manifesto.
Despite facing difficulties, Odigie-Oyegun reaffirmed the committee’s dedication to producing a coherent and actionable manifesto ahead of the party convention.
In his response, David Mark emphasized that the interim report signifies a major milestone for the committee, showcasing the party's readiness to govern. He remarked on how vital it is for the ADC to set itself apart from other parties through meticulous preparation, clear policies, and responsible governance.
Mark commended the committee members for their intellectual diligence and commitment, highlighting that the interim report marks a crucial achievement in forming a reliable policy framework. He underlined that Nigeria’s ongoing challenges stem from inadequate analysis.
He stressed the necessity for effective policies that address fundamental issues rather than mere symptoms, ensuring that the solutions proposed are precise, practical, and capable of engendering meaningful changes.
Mark urged the committee to rigorously explore structural challenges by posing difficult questions regarding underlying causes, impacts, and required reforms, ensuring that proposed policies align with citizens' actual needs.
Key recommendations from the report included gradual economic reforms complemented by social safety nets, provisions for vulnerable groups, equitable taxation, and establishing institutional frameworks for social protections under legal mandates.
Further, the report highlighted the need for security reforms, categorizing kidnapping and banditry as forms of terrorism, enhancing enforcement strategies, and restoring public trust in national security mechanisms.
According to Mark, the overall goal of the framework is to prioritize democratic citizenship by placing individuals at the heart of governance, ensuring governmental institutions provide value, uphold public trust, and improve individuals' lives while fostering national development.
He conveyed that the subsequent phase will entail consultations, refinements, and the development of the manifesto to ensure policies resonate with real experiences of Nigerians and effectively guide governance leading up to elections.
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