The Victory Advocates of Nigeria (VAN), a support group under the PDP umbrella, hosted its inaugural Award Conference on Friday, focusing on the theme “Revitalizing the PDP Giants towards Party Victory.” This event aimed to foster unity and cohesion within the PDP, ultimately leading to electoral success.
The event convener, Prince Oluwaseyi Adepoju Ajibola, expressed gratitude to God for the grace and wisdom to organize the event. He thanked all the members who attended from far and near. He highlighted that the event symbolized a victorious journey for Advocates of Nigeria, aimed at celebrating heroes within their party. VAN, a sociopolitical pressure group registered in Nigeria, is dedicated to providing full support to enhance the party’s winning capabilities in Nigeria and abroad. He emphasized their organization’s commitment to mobilizing efforts and actions to fulfill the PDP’s manifesto and mandate. In their quest to promote unity, development, and growth within the party, VAN urged PDP leaders to fulfill their responsibilities by guiding the eager members seeking the party’s victory, holding them accountable if the party falters. He added that the event, themed ‘Revitalizing the PDP Giants,’ aimed to inspire, motivate, and recognize PDP leaders for their continued efforts.
Prominent PDP stakeholders graced the occasion, delivering speeches that resonated with the audience.
The event served as a platform to recognize and reward individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in advancing and sustaining the party’s goals at various levels.
Speaking at the event, the Rep of Amina Titi Abubakar, Hon. Yemisi Afolabi during the event appreciated the organizers and urged them to remain resolute as it will pay off in the short term. She emphasized that the Youths have all it takes to succeed and stressed the importance of active participation in politics while remaining the agents of change in the present economic woes of the nation.
The National women leader of PDP, Hon. Amina Darasimi Bryhm, in her thought provoking good will message was passionate about the energy of the Youths in a developing society such as Nigeria. She urged the youth to develop the culture of taking a step in the right direction. She recalled her experience as a teenager, when she decided to take the bull by the horn to engage in politics, today she has no regret, she highlighted.
The 2023 Presidential flag bearer, Abubakar Atiku who was represented by his personal aid, stated that The party needs a program such as this, to propel and encourage the party members. He pledged his commitment and support for VAN as he acknowledged the event as youth oriented. He alluded to the hards times so experienced, but urged youth members not give up.
Prominent at the event was Olajide Adediran(Jandor), the 2023 PDP Governorship aspirant in Lagos State,
who was guest speaker, stated that the event was apt for PDP Youths to be encouraged and not to give. He feels it is right to reward results and not effort. Urged VAN to work harder with new strategies as he believes in the 2027 constitution as amended.
One of the highlights was the presentation of the Media Excellence award to Obinna Ejianya, the Publisher of 9news Nigeria, who was lauded for his role in revitalizing the media industry through accurate reportage. Ejianya, represented by the National Program Director, Wale Fasade, expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing the importance of accurate and responsible journalism.
Other notable awardees included the 2023 PDP presidential flag bearer Atiku Abubakar, Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang and Ahmed Makarfi, former governor of Kaduna State among others.
Overall, the event was characterized by enthusiasm and optimism, reflecting the party’s determination to secure victory in upcoming elections. It was a celebration of exemplary leadership and a call to action for all members to remain steadfast in their support for the PDP.
