By Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar | Katsina Times, April 26, 2026
The Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) in Katsina State has received a formal handover of political structures from the Northern Youth Coalition Forum, in a move aimed at strengthening grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The handover took place on Saturday 25 April, at the NDC State Chairman’s Office in GRA, Katsina, where representatives of the coalition pledged alignment with the party’s vision and leadership.
Speaking during the event, Hon. Ishaka Awallino, who led the delegation, said the Northern Youth Coalition Forum—comprising members across the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory—had previously collaborated with another political platform but resolved to realign after internal challenges.
Awallino explained that the group engaged in consultations at the national level with NDC leadership, which resulted in a mutual agreement to integrate their existing political structures into the party.
“We are here today to formally hand over our structure across the three senatorial districts of Katsina State to the NDC leadership,” he said. “This is part of our commitment to work together and expand the party’s presence across the state.”
He added that the coalition’s structure includes coordinators across key zones, covering Katsina Central, Daura, and Funtua senatorial districts, and noted that the platform is mobilising youth participation in preparation for the 2027 elections.
Awallino also acknowledged the absence of the group’s women leader at the event, assuring that efforts would continue to ensure inclusive participation across all segments of the coalition.
In his remarks, the Katsina State Chairman of the NDC, Hon. Aliyu Ilu Barde, welcomed the coalition members and described their decision as a significant boost to the party’s grassroots strength.
“I am honoured to receive this group of committed young Nigerians who have chosen to prioritise national interest above personal gain,” he said. “Their resolve, despite prevailing political pressures, demonstrates a genuine desire for progress and reform.”
Barde expressed confidence in the party’s trajectory, stating that the NDC is positioning itself as a credible alternative ahead of the 2027 elections.
He also used the occasion to criticise what he described as constraints faced by opposition parties in Nigeria, particularly regarding access to public venues for political activities.
“A democratic system must allow fair competition,” he said. “There should be no restrictions preventing opposition parties from organising and engaging citizens.”
The state chairman further called on members of other opposition parties to unite under the NDC platform, emphasising the need for collaboration to achieve political change.
The event marks a strategic step in NDC’s efforts to consolidate support in northern Nigeria, with both leaders expressing optimism about expanding the party’s influence across Katsina State and beyond.
