The long-anticipated inauguration of the Abuja Chapter of the Arise with Renewed Hope Initiative has come and gone, leaving behind a resounding message: Abuja has firmly emerged as the strategic powerhouse of the movement across Northern Nigeria.
The event, marked by a remarkable turnout and seamless organization, brought together key political actors, stakeholders, and supporters under a calm and welcoming atmosphere that reflected the unity and purpose of the initiative.
The arrival of the President General, international leadership, and their delegation further underscored the significance of the occasion, as members and supporters gathered in high spirits.
In his welcome remarks, the Abuja Coordinator, Tommy Etim Okon PhD, expressed gratitude to the leadership of the initiative for their presence and confidence reposed in him, assuring all of a vibrant and impactful era ahead. His address set the tone for what would become a defining moment for the chapter.
Representing Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, lauded the Abuja Chapter for its impressive coordination and commitment, emphasizing the state’s longstanding dominance and influence in electoral processes.
Delivering a thought-provoking remark that energized the gathering, the International coordinator, Rt. Hon. Udo Kieran described Abuja as the most structured and strategically prepared chapter within the initiative. He highlighted its readiness to drive massive support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Governor Umo Eno.
Kieran noted that the initiative represents a refined and purpose-driven platform, building on past mobilization frameworks while positioning itself as the primary vehicle to deliver electoral victories. He called on members to remain committed and urged eligible citizens to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) as a critical step toward participation in the democratic process.
The high point of the ceremony was the formal inauguration of the Executive Committee and the Advisory Council by the President General, Uwem Okoko FNSE, and Barr Bob, respectively. The development signals a major leap in strengthening the initiative’s grassroots mobilization structure across the Federal Capital Territory and the 19 Northern states.
At the heart of this new leadership structure is Dr. Tommy Etim Okon, who officially assumed office as Chairman, taking up the mantle of leadership with a clear mandate. He is supported by a formidable team, including Prince Godswill Monday Etian as Assistant Coordinator and Comrade Kingsley Iwok as Deputy Coordinator1 alongside other key officials across strategic roles.
The Advisory Council, chaired by Dr. Emmanuel J. Umoh, with notable members including Barr. Gabriel Fan and Mr. Raymond Abia were also inaugurated to provide guidance and strategic direction for the initiative’s operations.
Addressing the gathering, Engr. Uwem Okoko described the initiative as a unifying coalition designed to bring together political stakeholders, community leaders, and grassroots supporters to advance development-driven policies while aligning with the Renewed Hope agenda of President Tinubu. He charged members to remain focused and committed to achieving electoral success in the coming cycle.
In his acceptance speech, Dr. Tommy Okon reaffirmed his readiness to lead, describing the task ahead as demanding but achievable. He pledged to drive aggressive grassroots mobilization across Abuja and Northern Nigeria, declaring the mission to secure renewed mandates for the leadership as unwavering and non-negotiable.
He further emphasized that Abuja would continue to serve as a stronghold for the All Progressives Congress (APC), assuring that the chapter would play a decisive role in delivering victories for the party’s leadership in future elections.
Goodwill messages from community leaders and stakeholders reinforced the unity of purpose, with strong assurances of continued support for the initiative and its political direction. The women and youth wings also pledged total commitment, highlighting their crucial roles in shaping electoral outcomes and mobilizing support at all levels.
Adding a symbolic highlight to the occasion, the event coincided with the birthday celebration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, making it a dual moment of political significance and celebration.
In all, the inauguration not only marked the formal unveiling of a formidable leadership structure but also signaled the rise of a coordinated and energized political force, poised to drive unity, mobilization, and electoral success across Northern Nigeria.
