Paragraph 1: Tinubu’s Confidence and Anticipation of Defections
President Bola Tinubu expressed unwavering confidence in his administration’s achievements and the All Progressives Congress (APC) party’s prospects, predicting a wave of defections from other political parties in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections. He conveyed this optimism during the APC Renewed Hope Agenda Summit held at the State House Conference Centre, attended by party leaders, the National Working Committee, National Assembly leadership, and the Progressive Governors’ Forum. Tinubu likened remaining in opposing parties to being on a "sinking ship without a life jacket," suggesting that the APC’s perceived success would draw politicians seeking better opportunities. He framed these anticipated defections as a natural part of the political game, highlighting citizens’ constitutional right to choose their political affiliations.
Paragraph 2: Economic Reforms and Positive Reviews
President Tinubu underscored his administration’s focus on economic reforms aimed at achieving long-term gains. He emphasized that these reforms had garnered positive reviews both domestically and internationally, indicating growing confidence in his economic policies. He acknowledged that a one-party system was not ideal for democracy, but positioned the APC as the party best equipped to carry the aspirations of Nigerians. The President expressed satisfaction with the progress made thus far, emphasizing that the journey, having begun 24 months prior, was only halfway complete. He thanked members of the Federal Executive Council for their courage in pursuing his vision for a better Nigeria and acknowledged the support of the party leadership and the National Assembly.
Paragraph 3: Renewed Hope Agenda and Addressing Challenges
Tinubu reiterated the core tenets of his Renewed Hope Agenda, highlighting the administration’s commitment to tackling economic instability, improving national security, reducing corruption, reforming governance, and alleviating poverty. He acknowledged the challenges faced upon assuming office in May 2023 but stressed the progress made through the implementation of difficult but necessary economic reforms. He specifically mentioned the elimination of arbitrage-driven multiple foreign exchange rates and the impending implementation of far-reaching tax reforms. These measures, he argued, were crucial for attracting foreign direct investment, which would ultimately lead to job creation, increased production of goods and services, and an improved standard of living for Nigerians.
Paragraph 4: Justification for Tough Decisions and Long-Term Benefits
The President acknowledged the challenging nature of the reforms but assured Nigerians that they were essential for securing a better future. He defended his administration’s decisions by asserting that they couldn’t afford to jeopardize the future of the nation’s children. He pointed to the recovery of over 750 houses from a single individual by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) as evidence of the deep-seated corruption that the reforms were designed to combat. Tinubu positioned the reforms as a necessary pain for long-term gain, arguing that eliminating arbitrage in the exchange rate – a major source of corruption – was a crucial step towards economic stability and prosperity.
Paragraph 5: Endorsements for a Second Term
President Tinubu received overwhelming endorsements for a second term from key figures within the APC. Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressives Governors Forum, Hope Uzodimma, lauded Tinubu’s visionary leadership and moved a motion for a vote of confidence and endorsement for the 2027 presidential race, which was seconded by Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani. Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas echoed the praise, commending Tinubu’s purposeful and inclusive leadership and pledging their support for his re-election bid.
Paragraph 6: Party Unity and the 2027 Elections
APC Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje led the National Working Committee in endorsing President Tinubu as the party’s sole candidate for the 2027 presidential elections. Ganduje urged party members to reject internal sabotage and focus on engaging communities, listening to citizens, and building a robust political structure beyond election cycles. He emphasized the importance of renewing their commitment to the party’s founding principles and rallying behind President Tinubu’s policies to deliver the Renewed Hope that Nigerians deserve. The summit served as a platform to review the administration’s two-year performance across key sectors, including health, infrastructure, and security, reaffirming the party’s commitment to its agenda and solidifying support for Tinubu’s future presidential aspirations.
