By Abdulrahman Bashir Haske
As Nigeria commemorates Democracy Day on June 12, 2026—a solemn occasion that reflects our collective resolve to uphold democratic ideals and sustain the progress of our nation—I am compelled to reaffirm my unwavering commitment to the advancement of our democratic journey.
Indeed, every generation is confronted with a defining choice: to acquiesce to inherited realities or to rise with courage and conviction in shaping a more promising future. With clarity of purpose and a deep sense of responsibility, I have chosen the latter.
My journey into public life did not originate from political ambition. Rather, it was born from a sincere desire to create value, build sustainable enterprises, empower individuals, and contribute meaningfully to society. Over the years, through my work in entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and community engagement, I have witnessed firsthand both the extraordinary potential of the people of Adamawa and the vast, yet untapped, opportunities within our communities.
These experiences have strengthened my belief that leadership must transcend mere rhetoric. It should ignite hope, create tangible opportunities, and deliver measurable improvements in the lives of the people.
As a businessman and philanthropist, I have consistently maintained that development holds true significance only when it touches the lives of ordinary citizens. Long before expressing any political aspiration, I remained steadfast in supporting education, nurturing young entrepreneurs, assisting vulnerable groups, and expanding economic opportunities for families across Adamawa State and beyond.
My commitment has always been rooted in service; indeed, my political ambition is simply an extension of that enduring commitment.
My engagement with the All Progressives Congress (APC) has been guided by a simple yet powerful belief: that young people must no longer remain passive observers in the governance process.
Across Adamawa State and Nigeria at large, countless young citizens possess the talent, creativity, and energy required to accelerate national development. Yet, regrettably, their voices remain underrepresented in key decision-making spaces.
I have therefore consistently advocated for greater youth inclusion, firmly convinced that leadership must reflect the demographic reality of our nation. Young Nigerians are not merely the leaders of tomorrow; they are active stakeholders in today’s decisions and essential partners in shaping tomorrow’s prosperity. Governance becomes more effective when it embraces fresh perspectives, innovative thinking, and active citizen participation.
It is this conviction that has guided my engagement with communities across Adamawa State. Through consultations, grassroots interactions, and broad stakeholder dialogue, I have listened attentively to the aspirations of our people.
The message has been both clear and compelling: there is a strong desire for accountable leadership, economic expansion, quality education, agricultural revitalisation, improved infrastructure, and sustainable development.
Throughout my political engagements, particularly in the lead-up to the 2027 APC Governorship Primary Election, I have remained committed to fostering unity, promoting peaceful participation, and encouraging constructive discourse. Politics, in my view, should serve as a platform for solutions—not division; for service—not self-interest.
The outcome of any political contest does not diminish one’s dedication to the people. Democracy flourishes when individuals remain steadfast in their principles, irrespective of electoral outcomes. My commitment to the APC remains resolute, grounded in my belief in progressive leadership, democratic values, and national development. While political contests may come and go, service to the people is a lifelong obligation—one to which I remain deeply devoted.
To the many young people who have supported this movement, I offer a message of encouragement: this is not a conclusion, but a beginning. Temporary setbacks and delayed victories should never weaken your resolve. History attests that every meaningful movement is built upon persistence, resilience, and unwavering belief. The future belongs to those who refuse to surrender their aspirations to doubt or discouragement.
A call to action for our youth
I urge the youth of Adamawa State and Nigeria at large to rise with purpose and determination. This is your moment to step forward—not as observers, but as active participants in shaping the destiny of our nation. Engage in governance, contribute to your communities, build enterprises, and lend your voice to policies that affect your future.
Let us move beyond apathy and embrace responsibility. Register, vote, organise, innovate, and lead in every sphere available to you. Refuse to be defined by limitations; instead, define the possibilities that lie ahead. The strength of any society lies in the energy and courage of its young people, and Nigeria is no exception.
You are not too young to make a difference. You are not too small to create impact. The future we seek will only be realised when you choose to take ownership of it.
I therefore call on you to remain steadfast, to stay hopeful, and to continue building a movement grounded in integrity, service, and progress. Together, let us transform our aspirations into reality and chart a new course for generations to come.
History ultimately honours not those who merely sought power, but those who used their influence to uplift and transform lives. True leadership is measured by impact, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to humanity.
As for me, my focus remains clear and steadfast. I remain dedicated to serving the people of Adamawa State and contributing to the progress of Nigeria. The mission endures. The vision remains alive. The journey is far from over. I also reaffirm my commitment to the stability and electoral success of our great party, the APC.
Together, we can build a future defined by opportunity, inclusion, prosperity, and enduring hope. Indeed, the finest chapters of our story are yet to be written.
Haske is a former 2027 APC Governorship Aspirant in Adamawa.
