President Bola Tinubu on Thursday projected more defections from opposition political parties into the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), stating that the realignment is a natural outcome of Nigeria’s evolving democratic landscape.
Speaking at the APC National Summit held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where he was officially adopted as the party’s sole presidential candidate for the 2027 election, President Tinubu said the APC remains the dominant political platform steering the aspirations of Nigerians.
“You don’t blame a people bailing out of a sinking ship,” the President declared. “I’m expecting more to come, that is the game. We are in a constitutional democracy that guarantees freedom of movement and freedom of association. Welcome to the progressives.”
Reacting to his endorsement by the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) and the APC National Working Committee (NWC), Tinubu said the unified backing reflects the trust reposed in his leadership.
“The endorsement today, the ‘carry go’ expression, I know road,” he said. “We will lead you on to that promised land.”
He reassured Nigerians that the administration’s economic recovery plan is on course and urged citizens to remain hopeful.
“The resuscitation of the Nigerian economy is on course. The hope is standing before you — take it on. Nigeria will be industrialized. The next two years will be great,” he said.
Tinubu also commended Vice President Kashim Shettima, describing him as a key member of his administration’s “think tank” team.
“We have the mission. We have the vision,” Tinubu stated, just as he highlighted the importance of strategic minds in delivering his “Renewed Hope” agenda.
In a note to party loyalists yet to benefit from political appointments, Tinubu called for patience, assuring them that their time would come.
“To many of you I have not offered political positions. Be patient. Many things are coming,” he said.
