ABUJA/Nigeria: President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that his administration is fully aware of the economic challenges facing the country and is implementing reforms aimed at delivering long-term prosperity, even as he called for unity within the All Progressives Congress (APC) at its National Convention in Abuja.
Addressing party leaders, delegates, and stakeholders at the Eagle Square during the two-day convention held on March 27 and 28, the President described the gathering as more than a routine political event, but a reaffirmation of the party’s commitment to democracy, good governance, and national development.
“I stand before you with immense gratitude and a deep sense of responsibility. This convention is a moment for renewal, reflection, and strengthening our unity as a party,” Tinubu said.
The President commended members of the APC for their loyalty and sacrifices, noting that their collective efforts have sustained the party as the most formidable political platform in Nigeria.
He stressed that unity remains the backbone of the party’s success, warning that division could undermine progress and electoral victories.
“Without unity, there can be no progress. Without cohesion, there can be no victory,” he stated, urging members to close ranks and strengthen party structures across all levels.
Tinubu acknowledged the prevailing economic difficulties, including the rising cost of living, power supply challenges, and infrastructural deficits, assuring Nigerians that his administration is not indifferent to their plight.
“I feel the pains of Nigerians. We are not insensitive to the hardships of our people. Every policy we have introduced is aimed at correcting long-standing structural imbalances in our economy,” he said.
The President explained that the reforms undertaken by his administration were necessary to reposition the country’s economy, noting that while they may come with temporary discomfort, they are designed to yield sustainable benefits.
“We inherited a system that required bold and decisive action. We chose the path of reform because we believe that temporary pain will lead to lasting prosperity,” he added.
On the power sector, Tinubu assured that concrete steps are being taken to improve electricity generation, transmission, and distribution, expressing optimism that Nigerians would soon experience improved power supply.
“We are working tirelessly to ensure that homes, businesses, and industries have access to reliable electricity,” he said.
The President also highlighted ongoing investments in infrastructure and efforts to create an enabling environment for private sector participation, aimed at building a resilient and diversified economy.
He charged the newly elected National Working Committee (NWC) of the APC to uphold integrity, transparency, and inclusiveness in managing the affairs of the party, while strengthening internal democracy and engaging members at the grassroots.
“You have been entrusted with a great responsibility—to lead this party into the future. Build a party that listens, that responds, and that delivers,” Tinubu said.
He also urged governors and other elected officials on the platform of the APC to continue delivering the dividends of democracy, noting that their performance would define the party’s credibility.
As part of efforts to expand the party’s influence, Tinubu called for a deliberate strategy to attract more Nigerians who share the APC’s vision but are yet to join the party.
Looking ahead, the President emphasised that political power must be seen as a tool for service rather than an end in itself, stressing the need to uplift communities and secure a better future for all Nigerians.
“Nigeria will succeed. Our reforms will work. Our sacrifices will not be in vain,” he declared, expressing confidence in the party’s leadership and the resilience of Nigerians.
The convention, which brought together top government officials, party leaders, and thousands of delegates from across the country, served as a platform for consolidating the APC’s internal structures and reinforcing its commitment to governance and national development.
