President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for unity within the ruling All Progressives Congress, urging party members to prioritise collective progress over personal ambition as the party held its 4th Elective National Convention in Abuja.
Addressing party delegates at Eagle Square, Tinubu described the convention as a “defining chapter” in both the party’s evolution and Nigeria’s democratic journey, stressing that internal cohesion remains the APC’s greatest strength.
“Our greatest strength has never been in our size or numbers, but our unity,Political parties falter when ego overrides ideology or when ambition replaces discipline,” the president said.
Held under the theme “Unity in Progress: Consolidating the Renewed Hope Agenda,” the convention brought together party leaders, governors, ministers, and stakeholders to elect new officials and reaffirm the APC’s direction ahead of future political contests.
Tinubu used the platform to defend his administration’s economic reforms, acknowledging the difficulties Nigerians face while insisting that tough decisions were necessary to reposition the country.
“No nation rises by hiding from the truth. No economy grows by sustaining wasteful subsidies, The sacrifices of today are laying the foundation for Nigeria’s prosperity tomorrow,” he said.
The president pointed to improvements in key economic indicators, including declining inflation, increased investor confidence, and growth in trade surpluses. He also cited reforms in infrastructure, taxation, and the oil and gas sector as signs of progress under his administration.
“Our stock market is booming, GDP is growing, and business confidence is returning,” adding that Nigeria’s recent exit from the FATF Grey List marked a decisive return to global financial credibility,” Tinubu said,
On governance and democracy, Tinubu rejected claims that the APC seeks to dominate Nigeria’s political space, affirming his support for a competitive democratic system.
“We do not seek a one-party state, Democracy thrives on vibrant and healthy competition,” he said
He also defended the controversial Electoral Act 2026, noting that it underwent legislative scrutiny and public consultation before passage by the National Assembly.
The president paid tribute to former leader Muhammadu Buhari and other deceased party members, calling for a moment of silence in their honour and urging members to uphold the founding ideals of the party.
Looking ahead, Tinubu emphasised youth and women inclusion as critical to the party’s future, pledging to expand opportunities for both groups in leadership and decision-making roles.
“To the young people, you are not only the future of Nigeria, you are our hope, This party must open more doors for youth participation,” he said.
He also called for greater representation of women, warning that exclusion would weaken the party’s long-term prospects.
As internal contests unfolded, Tinubu urged delegates and aspirants to remain disciplined and avoid divisions.
“Let no contest divide us. Let no outcome embitter us. At the end of this convention, our party must be the victor,” he said.
The convention also saw the president commend key figures involved in its organisation, including former Katsina State governor Aminu Bello Masari and former Senate President Anyim Pius Anyim, alongside several state governors.
Tinubu concluded by urging newly elected party officials to lead with integrity and vision, warning that the future of both the APC and Nigeria’s democracy depends on their leadership.
“The future of our party, and Nigeria’s democracy, depends on your leadership, Lead with courage, lead with integrity, and lead with vision,” he said.