The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), David Mark, has called on party leaders to unite and reposition the ADC as Nigeria’s leading alternative, declaring that the country is in urgent need of rescue from worsening insecurity and failed governance.
Speaking at the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, Mark said Nigerians are “yearning for purposeful leadership,” stressing that the responsibility before the ADC is “moral and historic.”
He commended party members for their loyalty and sacrifices, urging them to rise above personal interests and strengthen internal cohesion. According to him, unity, discipline, and adherence to democratic principles remain critical to the party’s success.
In a strong critique of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Mark said the government has failed to tackle insecurity, kidnapping, and widespread violence, warning that such challenges have now become “the new normal.”
“The ADC must rise to the occasion. We are prepared to do things differently and make Nigeria safer,” he declared.
The former Senate President also applauded state chairmen for embracing dialogue despite challenges, emphasizing that collaboration and strategic alliances are key to rescuing the nation.
At the meeting, the NEC ratified actions taken by the National Working Committee and approved key administrative decisions. It also endorsed the timetable for upcoming congresses and party primaries.
Briefing journalists, the National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, said the party reviewed current political developments and agreed that Nigerians are increasingly disillusioned with the APC and are ready to embrace the ADC.
The meeting ended with a renewed commitment by party leaders to expand grassroots engagement and position the ADC as a credible platform for national renewal ahead of future elections.
The full address is published below:
REMARKS BY THE NATIONAL CHAIRMAN OF THE AFRICAN DEMOCRATIC CONGRESS (ADC), SENATOR DAVID MARK, GCON, AT THE 2ND NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE (NEC) MEETING HELD ON WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2026
Distinguished members of the National Executive Committee, Respected leaders of our great party, Esteemed stakeholders, Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is with great honour and a deep sense of responsibility that I welcome you all to this 2nd meeting of the National Executive Committee of our great party, the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Let me begin by expressing my sincere appreciation to each and every one of you for your unwavering commitment, loyalty, and sacrifices towards the growth and stability of our party. Your dedication, even in challenging times, continues to inspire confidence in the future of the ADC as a credible alternative for national leadership.
This meeting comes at a critical moment in the life of our party and indeed our nation. Nigerians across all walks of life are yearning for purposeful leadership, equity, justice, and a government that truly serves the people. The responsibility before us, therefore, is not just political—it is moral and historic.
As leaders of this great movement, we must rise above personal interests and remain united in our resolve to build a strong, disciplined, and people-oriented party. Internal cohesion, respect for party structures, and adherence to democratic principles must remain our guiding pillars.
Distinguished colleagues,
Our task is clear: to reposition the ADC as the foremost platform for national renewal. We must continue to strengthen our internal mechanisms, expand our grassroots reach, and engage meaningfully with Nigerians across all regions, religions, and generations.
Let me emphasize that unity within our ranks is non-negotiable. Recent developments have shown that while challenges may arise, our collective will to remain focused and united is stronger than any divisive tendencies. We must therefore close ranks, deepen consultation, and reinforce confidence in our leadership and processes.
Let me use this opportunity to thank our state chairmen who have chosen the path of dialogue and consultation in spite of all odds. Together, we can salvage Nigeria.
Distinguished party leaders and members, Nigeria is now bedeviled by unabating insecurity, kidnapping and violence of immense proportion. Unfortunately, these ills are now the new normal.
The ruling APC has shown incompetence. They have shown that they are incapable of arresting the situation.
Our party, the ADC must rise up to the occasion to address these ills. We are prepared to do things differently and make Nigeria a better and safer society.
As we deliberate today, I urge us to approach our discussions with open minds, patriotism, and a shared vision for a better Nigeria. Let our decisions reflect the aspirations of millions of Nigerians who look up to the—ADC as a beacon of hope.
We must also continue to work with like-minded individuals and groups who share our vision of rescuing our nation from its current challenges. The time for collaboration, constructive engagement, and strategic alignment is now.
Distinguished members,
The journey ahead may be demanding, but with unity, discipline, and commitment, victory is assured. Let us remain steadfast and resolute.
On this note, I wish us all fruitful deliberations.
Thank you, and may God bless the African Democratic Congress.
May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.