President Bola Tinubu has expressed confidence that more political figures will join the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections.
Speaking at the APC Renewed Hope Agenda Summit held Thursday at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja, Tinubu reflected on the progress made by his administration and party so far. According to a statement by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, the President described political defections as part of the democratic process.
“You don’t expect people to remain in a sinking ship without a life jacket. I am happy with what we have accomplished and expecting more people to come; that’s the game,” Tinubu stated while addressing party stakeholders, including members of the National Working Committee, National Assembly leadership, and the Progressive Governors’ Forum, which consists of 22 governors.
At the summit, the President received a collective endorsement from APC leaders for a second term in office. He noted that the administration’s reform-driven approach, particularly in economic policy, had attracted commendations both locally and internationally.
“A one-party system is not suitable for democracy. We are one party ruling and carrying on with the aspirations of Nigerians,” he added.
Tinubu acknowledged the citizens’ right to political association, saying, “I thank every one of you. I am thoroughly inspired. We are just halfway through the journey that started 24 months ago.”
He commended the Federal Executive Council for its dedication to his vision of national transformation and appreciated the party’s leadership and National Assembly members for their cooperation.
“Together, we pledged to confront Nigeria’s challenges head-on by rebuilding the trust, fostering prosperity and restoring our nation’s economic quest.
“Today, I am proud to affirm that our economic reforms are working. Nothing good comes easy in life. All of you have been through life, and sometimes, only hard decisions can make things easy in the future.
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“We couldn’t just afford to spend the future of our children and unborn babies,” he said.
The President reiterated the administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity, corruption, and poverty through the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“How fast could you have rebuilt this country? If you allow the arbitrage in the exchange rate to continue, that is the grandfather of corruption. You could see EFCC recover over seven hundred and fifty-something houses from one person,” he noted.
Tinubu admitted that the economic changes were difficult but insisted they were essential steps toward long-term stability.
“Yes, we encountered challenges when we assumed office in May 2023, but we have made progress by implementing difficult, long overdue but necessary economic reforms.
“We have eliminated the arbitrage-driven multiple foreign exchanges, and our far-reaching tax reforms are coming.
“Because of the reforms, our country now attracts foreign direct investments that will ultimately create jobs and produce much-needed goods and services that will significantly improve the standard of living of our people,” he stated.
In support, Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State and chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum praised Tinubu’s leadership and proposed a motion of confidence in him. His motion endorsing the President for a second term in 2027 was seconded by Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas also expressed support for the President’s re-election bid, citing his inclusive and goal-oriented leadership.
Abdullahi Ganduje, APC National Chairman, led the National Working Committee in endorsing Tinubu as the party’s sole candidate for 2027. Ganduje called on party members to remain united and engage citizens at the grassroots.
“I urge all members to reject internal sabotage. Engage communities, listen to citizens, and build a political structure beyond elections,” the former Kano State governor advised.
He concluded by urging continued loyalty to the President’s vision, stating, “Let us rally behind President Bola Tinubu, support our policies, and deliver the Renewed Hope Nigerians rightfully deserve.”
