Accra was alive with energy and excitement as the youth wing of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), known as 18plus4NDC, celebrated its third anniversary in grand style.

The event, held at the Tang Palace Hotel in Accra, brought together young activists, party loyalists, and notable dignitaries to mark not only the group’s milestone but also the victory of the NDC in the 2024 general elections.

The founder of 18plus4NDC, Bridget Bonnie, took centre stage to recount the journey of the youth-led movement over the past three years. She described the group as a network of young people passionate about the NDC and its vision for Ghana.

“18plus4NDC is a group of young people who believe in the ideals of the NDC. For the past three years, we have campaigned tirelessly for His Excellency John Dramani Mahama. Alongside this, we have been educating young people about the NDC – what we stand for, where we came from, and where we are heading.

“We've provided orientation on the party's constitution, introduced young members to the profiles of key personalities, and fostered a deeper understanding of the NDC's mission,” she said.

Bridget Bonnie highlighted the group’s extensive efforts to engage young people through social media and grassroots mobilization.

“We have travelled across the country, and our activities are visible on social media. Our strategies to draw young people into the party have been effective, and today, we are celebrating not only our anniversary but also the NDC's victory.”

She closed her speech with a heartfelt message to Ghanaian youth.

“Dear young people, it’s Christmas. Let’s celebrate responsibly, but let’s also be patriotic and democratic. Let’s put Ghana first. If we truly want to build this country, we need to lead with integrity and selflessness. We are the future, and the future begins with us taking responsibility for the direction of our nation.”

Henry Okoe Oninku, the Deputy Constituency Communication Officer for Tema East, also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the dual purpose of the event – a Christmas carol celebration and a victory thanksgiving.

“It’s Christmas, and as tradition demands, we’re here for our annual 18plus4NDC Christmas Carol celebration. But today is special. We are killing two birds with one stone by also celebrating the victory of the NDC,” he stated.

Henry praised the efforts of the campaign teams, from the youth level to the constituency level, for their dedication and hard work in securing the party’s successes.

“The NDC has done so well. This victory is not just for the NDC but for Ghana. It’s a victory to rescue the nation as we approach the 2024 elections.”

He expressed confidence in the party’s ability to deliver on its promises, including the Women’s Development Bank initiative.

“As someone from a fishing community where my mom is a fishmonger, the Women’s Development Bank policy resonates deeply with me. It was designed for women like my mother, and I campaigned strongly for it. We will push our leaders to deliver on all promises because they matter to communities like mine.”

Henry also celebrated the anticipated leadership of John Dramani Mahama and Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Africa’s first female vice president.

“Come January 7, 2025, power will be vested in His Excellency John Dramani Mahama and Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, marking a new era for Ghana and Africa.”

The event saw a sea of attendees dressed in white, symbolizing victory and unity. It was not only a moment of joy but also an opportunity for reflection and thanksgiving.

Party faithful sang carols, prayed, and danced, expressing their gratitude for how far the NDC has come.

Notable NDC dignitaries graced the occasion, reaffirming their support for the youth-led group. Their presence highlighted the importance of the youth in shaping the party’s future and ensuring its continued success.

The celebration served as a powerful reminder of the critical role young people play in Ghana’s political landscape. Both Bridget Bonnie and Henry Okoe Oninku called on the youth to remain patriotic, responsible, and committed to the nation’s development.

As the event concluded, the atmosphere was filled with hope and determination. The 18plus4NDC anniversary celebration was not just a commemoration of past achievements but a rallying cry for the future.

The youth of the NDC have declared their readiness to contribute to the party’s vision of a better Ghana, one rooted in integrity, democracy, and patriotism.