Abuja, Nigeria: Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has urged PDP members to bring fresh energy, innovative ideas, and cultural inclusivity to the party’s upcoming national convention in Ibadan.
Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central) said this at the inaugural meeting of her sub-committee in Abuja.
She noted that, although the committee members were diligently selected, the party and Nigerians expect a great deal from them, especially as preparations for the convention were in full gear.
Akpoti-Uduaghan stated that the sub-committee’s role should extend beyond merely providing food and drinks to party members, but also include activities that appeal to a broader audience of Nigerians watching the programme on television.
“We must ensure that our entertainment cuts across the cultures of our dear country. We must ensure that every region has the opportunity to represent and participate in the cultural festivities.
“We will expect a great deal from our host states, which is Oyo, because we would love to be entertained by their beautiful cultural groups and all that.
“We would expect intentional contributions, like we said, respect for all tribes and respect for all religions. The very best of Nigeria should be put to the fore,” she said.
Akpoti-Uduaghan added that the entertainment should be tailored to attract new members to the party, saying parties grow by the inflow of persons.
“There are some members of the ruling party and some of the other smaller parties that must admire something in us and find hope and trust to join us.
“There are many Nigerians who have turned the age of 18 since the last convention, even from the previous election, and they are searching for a party upon which they can entrust their political future.
“So we must present our activities such that we will be the admired party for the youth,” she said.
Akpoti-Uduaghan suggested that the sub-committee could incorporate their ideas, particularly through musical acts and cultural activities, to achieve this.
She said that the sub-committee must open up to new vibes, new ideas, new participation and new vision,
She tasked the members with organising a pre-convention cultural challenge in their respective states to achieve the best results.
“On Friday, as the chairperson of this committee, I will take it upon myself to put out a challenge for musical participation from my state and probably the best will win an award of a cash token and also a chance to participate,” she said.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, the party’s National Women Leader, Dr Amina Bryhm, who is also the secretary of the sub-committee, said that the preparations for the convention were at an advanced stage.
“You can see I am already wearing the uniform for the convention. So, we are not joking.
“For those who were thinking we need help, you can see the evidence, how prepared we are, that our fabrics are already out.
“All the committees are up and running. We are just finishing touches to all the caterers, all the artists that will be part of the event, and we hope to organise a memorable convention,” she said.