Steven Odarteifio declares bid for NDC Youth Organiser position; Targets 1 million young people

Mr. Steven Nhyira Odarteifio has officially announced his intention to run for the position of National Youth Organiser within the National Democratic Congress (NDC). During a press conference held on Monday, September 14, 2026, he explained his motivation for this decision. Odarteifio stated his desire for a different approach to youth leadership, aiming not only at political mobilization but also towards creating economic opportunities for young individuals.

According to Odarteifio, many Ghanaians backed President John Dramani Mahama and the NDC due to their belief in a prosperous future. However, he noted that while the government has launched initiatives such as Adwumawura, the National Apprenticeship Programme, and One Million Coders, additional efforts are required to ensure that young people are informed about these opportunities and can access them.

Odarteifio emphasized that the NDC Youth Wing must evolve into a stronger platform dedicated to connecting young people with jobs, skills, capital, agriculture, technology, and markets. He clarified that he does not intend for the Youth Wing to solely mobilize young people solely for elections, but instead to actively seek out and provide opportunities beyond elections.

Highlighting his qualifications, Odarteifio mentioned his extensive experience in youth development, agriculture, and enterprise. This background has enabled him to assist over 100,000 young people across Ghana, contributing to their economic growth through various agricultural economic enclaves, the distribution of agricultural equipment, support for local artisans in machinery manufacturing, and assistance for women processors and young farmers.

If elected, Odarteifio promised to ensure the NDC Youth Wing would have a significant economic impact on an additional one million young people before the completion of Mahama's administration. He also advocated for a shift in political culture, advocating that young individuals should be assessed based on their ideas, character, service, and ability to deliver, rather than their wealth, connections, or popularity.

He used historical figures like Yaa Asantewaa, Kwame Nkrumah, and Jerry John Rawlings as examples of individuals who succeeded in leadership roles despite not having initial access to significant power.

Odarteifio's campaign aims to inspire hope among young NDC members, including unemployed graduates, struggling entrepreneurs, foot soldiers, and branch and constituency organisers who feel marginalized. His vision includes creating an NDC Youth Wing that can transform political power into tangible economic opportunities for young people.

He urged young Ghanaians not to be deterred by their lack of political connections, financial resources, or popularity from making meaningful contributions to national development. Odarteifio firmly believes that young people deserve leaders who listen to their concerns, create opportunities, and assist them in achieving better lives.

Concluding his statement, Odarteifio encouraged young people to embrace this opportunity to shape the future of the NDC and Ghana, inviting them to rise and seize the chance to influence the political landscape.