By African Heritage Magazine Editorial Desk
The African Democratic Congress Diaspora Network (ADC-DN) convened its Strategic Convergence 2025 in a compelling virtual assembly that brought together party leaders, global stakeholders, and diaspora influencers for a historic dialogue on the future of the party and Nigeria’s democracy. The convergence reaffirmed the ADC’s renewed commitment to institutional reform, integrity-driven leadership, and strengthened Diaspora engagement ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The tone of the convergence shifted dramatically when Hon. Kasimu Maigari, ADC’s Zonal Vice Chairman (Diaspora), made a startling revelation: Chief Ralph Okey Nwosu, Pioneer National Chairman of the party, had rejected not one, but three ministerial appointments, including an open-ended financial inducement allegedly offered to pressure him into sabotaging the coalition. According to Maigari, this unparalleled act of political integrity safeguarded the party’s autonomy and preserved its long-standing commitment to principled politics. “Chief Nwosu stands unique in Nigeria’s political space,” Maigari said. “He refused to compromise the party. He refused to sell out. This is the kind of leadership that gives hope in a country where integrity is becoming a rare commodity.” This revelation ignited a wave of admiration among delegates, reinforcing ADC’s identity as a party grounded in transparency, courage, and loyalty.
A High-Level Gathering of Visionary Leaders
The convergence featured contributions from distinguished leaders across Nigeria and the Diaspora, including:
- H.E. Sen. Dr. David Mark, GCON, National Chairman – address read by Dr. Chike Okogwu
- H.E. Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, National Secretary – represented by Deputy National Secretary, Hon. Hauwa Musa Yusuf
- Chief Ralph Okey Nwosu, Pioneer National Chairman
- H.E. Solomon Dalong, former Minister & ADC National Diaspora Coordinator
- Hajiya Najutu Muhammad, Deputy National Chairman
- Fredrick Okpoto, Zonal Vice Chairman (Diaspora)
- Hon. Kasimu Maigari, Zonal Vice Chairman (Diaspora)
- Ms. Lauretta Onochie, former Presidential Aide
- ADC-DN Zonal Chairs from Africa, Europe, the Americas, Asia & the Middle East
- Senior party leaders, coalition partners, youth representatives, and PWD advocates.
The gathering began with Christian and Muslim prayers, symbolizing unity and highlighting ADC’s commitment to inclusiveness and cultural identity.
Gbandi: A New Chapter for Diaspora Political Influence
In his opening address, Hon. (Dr.) Kenneth Chibuogwu Gbandi, ADC-DN Chairman, reaffirmed the historic importance of Article 15 of the amended ADC Constitution, which formally recognizes the Diaspora as a full organ of the party. “This is not symbolic – it is strategic,” Gbandi stated. “The Diaspora is now constitutionally empowered to shape policy, strategy, and national direction as we move toward 2027.” Gbandi emphasized that the Convergence was designed to harmonize strategies between the six geopolitical zones and global Diaspora, strengthen policy alignment, and elevate the role of Nigerians abroad in national transformation.
Women of Influence Ignite the Convergence
ADC powerful female leaders delivered some of the most transformative messages of the event:
Hajiya Najutu Muhammad – The Courage to Stand Against Intimidation
She stirred the audience with a candid observation: “Being in the opposition today – especially in ADC, makes you an endangered species. But courage defines us.” Her message empowered delegates and reaffirmed ADC’s resilience in challenging political times.
Ms. Lauretta Onochie – Move from Speeches to Action
Onochie’s address was direct and catalytic: “It is time to convert brilliant presentations into measurable impact. Nigeria needs action, not just analysis.” Her remarks pushed the Diaspora toward greater accountability, voter education, and grassroots mobilization.
David Mark’s Keynote: Diaspora as an Engine of Institutional Renewal
Representing the National Chairman, Dr. Chike Okogwu delivered a landmark message emphasizing that the Diaspora serves as:
- A reservoir of innovation
- A pillar of inclusive politics
- A driver of governance reform
- A strategic bridge between Nigeria and global best practices
The keynote identified key Diaspora roles for 2027:
Policy harmonization, technology transfer, electoral preparedness, strategic investment, and democratic innovation.
Strategic Presentations Reshape ADC-DN’s Future Direction.
The Convergence featured robust policy and structural submissions: Dr. Edward Agbai presenting the ADC-DN white paper, he proposed:
- AI-driven electoral systems
- A Diaspora geopolitical zone
- Consolidated member databases
- Diaspora voting rights advocacy
- Strengthened financial and operational frameworks
The ADC-DN proposal was widely praised for its depth and innovation.
Other Key Inputs
- Hon. Rose Rahile Adamu, Ambassador Omolara Williams, Dr. Fatoye, Engr. Richard Akpikpi and Dr. Benjamin Chuku called for inclusivity, women/youth empowerment, and stronger diaspora-community engagement to highlighted ADC Europe’s commitment to accountability and anti-poverty frameworks.
- Prof. Mondy Good emphasized measurable outcomes and structured Diaspora reporting, pointing out the unity in ADC-DN as compare to other Diaspora organisations and call for the sustenance of such discipline.
Dalong: Diaspora Must Rekindle the Moral Courage to Save Nigeria’s Democracy
Former Minister H.E. Solomon Dalong delivered a stirring call for ethical leadership: “Beyond money, the Diaspora must lend Nigeria moral courage, strategic partnership, and truth to power.” His four-point charge emphasized:
- Leadership mentoring
- Democratic accountability
- Policy advocacy
- Support for credible candidates
His message drew strong applause and became a centerpiece of the convergence’s narrative.
Technical Excellence Amid Challenges
The session featured minor technical challenges, which moderators including Prof Charles and MacGodwin managed adeptly. Speaker spotlighting, video coordination, and session transitions demonstrated ADC-DN’s improving digital event management.
A Convergence Marked by Vision, Integrity, and Resolve
The meeting ended with a collective pledge to build a stronger ADC anchored on:
- Character
- Courage
- Competence
- Integrity
The Convergence stands as a defining moment in ADC’s evolution – and a testament to leaders like Hon. Kasimu Maigari, whose bold revelations and unwavering integrity continue to shape the future of the African Democratic Congress.
African Heritage Magazine will publish a special multi-part series detailing the full speeches, proposals, and transformation agenda unveiled at the ADC-DN Strategic Convergence 2025.
