President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for unity within the All Progressives Congress (APC), saying the party must remain disciplined and focused to sustain its political dominance and national development agenda.
Speaking on Friday at the 4th Elective National Convention of the APC held at Eagle Square, Tinubu described the convention as a defining moment for both the party and Nigeria’s democracy.
He stressed that unity remains the foundation of the party’s success, noting that political parties often fail when personal ambition and ego override discipline and collective ideology.
The President said the convention theme, “Unity in Progress: Consolidating the Renewed Hope Agenda,” reflects the party’s commitment to national development and political stability.
Tinubu paid tribute to the late former President Muhammadu Buhari and other party members who have died, saying their sacrifices helped build the party and must not be forgotten.
On democracy, the President said the APC does not support a one-party state but believes in strong political competition.
“We do not seek a one-party state, Democracy thrives on vibrant and healthy competition, I believe in a credible opposition, one that can challenge, question and help refine policies.”
Tinubu also defended the Electoral Act 2026, saying it followed due legislative process and public consultation before being passed into law.
Speaking on the economy, Tinubu said his administration took difficult but necessary decisions to reform the country’s economy and rebuild national finances.
“We knew the road to reform would be tough. But no nation rises by hiding from the truth, no economy grows by sustaining wasteful subsidies or dysfunctional priorities.”
He said the sacrifices Nigerians are making now will lead to long-term prosperity.
“The sacrifices of today are laying the foundation for Nigeria’s prosperity tomorrow.”
The President listed infrastructure development, tax reforms, social investment programmes, foreign exchange stability, and improved investor confidence as some of the achievements of his administration.
He also addressed challenges in the power sector and announced plans to improve electricity infrastructure through the proposed Grid Asset Management Company.
Adressing Nigerian youths, Tinubu encouraged them to become more involved in politics, leadership, and national development, saying the future of the country depends on their creativity, innovation, and active participation in governance.
He called for greater inclusion of women in politics and governance, saying empowering women strengthens political institutions and democracy.
The President tasked party members and delegates to remain peaceful during the convention and accept the outcome of party elections.
He concluded by urging newly elected party leaders to lead with integrity, humility, and vision, stressing that the future of the APC and Nigeria’s democracy depends on their leadership.
