President Bola Tinubu has declared that Nigeria will not become a one-party state, even as he emphasized that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has been making meaningful progress that continues to win over citizens and political actors.
Speaking at the APC Renewed Hope Agenda Summit held on Thursday at the State House Conference Centre, President Tinubu maintained that the growing support for the party stems from its bold and results-driven policies implemented within just two years in office.
“A one-party system is not suitable for democracy. We are one party ruling and carrying on with the aspirations of Nigerians. 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,” the President said.
The summit, which brought together leaders of the National Working Committee, the National Assembly, the Progressive Governors’ Forum comprising 22 state governors, and other party stakeholders, reviewed the administration’s performance so far and unanimously endorsed Tinubu for a second term.
While expressing appreciation for the endorsement, Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to foundational economic reforms.
“Today, I am proud to affirm that our economic reforms are working. Nothing good comes easy in life,” the President stated. “All of you have been through life, and sometimes, only hard decisions can make things easy in the future. We couldn’t just afford to spend the future of our children and unborn babies.”
He said the tough reforms taken since May 2023, including eliminating multiple exchange rates and initiating tax restructuring, were already attracting foreign investments that would create jobs and improve living standards.
“In just 24 months, we have stayed committed to tackling economic instability, improving security, reducing corruption, and lifting our people out of poverty,” Tinubu explained. “If you allow arbitrage in exchange rate to continue, that is the grandfather of corruption. You could see EFCC recover over 750-something houses from one person.”
The President noted that the country is “just halfway through the journey,” and he remains inspired by the support shown by APC leaders.
Senator Hope Uzodimma, Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum and Governor of Imo State, led the endorsement with a vote of confidence in the President and his leadership.
“President Tinubu has provided visionary and inspiring leadership. He deserves another term to consolidate on the Renewed Hope Agenda,” Uzodimma said.
His motion was seconded by the Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani.
Leaders of the National Assembly, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, echoed similar sentiments and assured Tinubu of their full backing for the 2027 presidential race.
Also speaking at the summit, APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, declared that President Tinubu would be the party’s sole candidate in the next general election.
“I urge all members to reject internal sabotage,” Ganduje cautioned. “Engage communities, listen to citizens, and build a political structure beyond elections. Let us rally behind President Bola Tinubu, support our policies, and deliver the Renewed Hope Nigerians rightfully deserve.”
