President Bola Tinubu expressed expectations of more political defections to the All Progressives Congress (APC) as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections.
Speaking at the APC Renewed Hope Agenda Summit held at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja, on Thursday, President Tinubu remarked,
“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 summit was attended by party leaders, the National Working Committee, the leadership of the National Assembly, and the Progressive Governors’ Forum, all of whom collectively endorsed President Tinubu for a second term.
The President highlighted the administration’s focus on long-term economic reforms, which have garnered positive reviews both domestically and internationally.
He emphasized that defection is a natural part of the political process, stating,
“A one-party system is not suitable for democracy. We are one party ruling and carrying on with the aspirations of Nigerians.”
President Tinubu acknowledged the constitutional right of citizens to choose their associations, adding,
“I thank every one of you. I am thoroughly inspired. We are just halfway through the journey that started 24 months ago.”
He expressed gratitude to members of the Federal Executive Council for their dedication to the vision of a better Nigeria and to the party leadership and National Assembly for their support.
The President reiterated the administration’s commitment to addressing Nigeria’s challenges by rebuilding trust, fostering prosperity, and restoring the nation’s economic trajectory. He stated,
“Through our Renewed Hope Agenda, our administration pledged to tackle economic instability, improve security nationwide, reduce corruption, reform governance, and lift our people out of poverty.”
Regarding economic reforms, President Tinubu noted the necessity of tough decisions, asserting,
“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.”
He pointed to the elimination of arbitrage-driven multiple foreign exchanges and upcoming tax reforms as steps toward attracting foreign direct investments, which will ultimately create jobs and improve the standard of living for Nigerians.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum and Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, commended President Tinubu’s inspiring and visionary leadership, expressing support for his second term bid.
Governor Uzodimma moved a motion passing a vote of confidence in the President, which was seconded by the Governor of Kaduna State, Uba Sani.
The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, also lauded the President for his inclusive leadership and pledged their support for his re-election.
The APC Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, who led the National Working Committee members to endorse President Tinubu for a second term, urged party members to reject internal sabotage, engage communities, listen to citizens, and build a political structure beyond elections.
He emphasized the importance of rallying behind the President and supporting the party’s policies to deliver the Renewed Hope Nigerians rightfully deserve.
The summit served as a platform to review the administration’s two-year performance across key economic sectors, including health, infrastructure, and security.
