Tinubu APC defections forecast stirs momentum as President calls on party leaders to accommodate new political heavyweights and strengthen national unity
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has predicted that more high-profile defections into the All Progressives Congress (APC) are imminent, as political heavyweights across Nigeria prepare to join the ruling party.
Also read: Tinubu Urges APC Governors to Prioritise Grassroots Development Reforms
Speaking at the 14th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the APC in Abuja on Thursday, Tinubu urged party leaders to keep the doors wide open and embrace new entrants with unity and respect.
“Our doors are still open, and we should embrace them wholeheartedly,” the President said.
“Before the end of this meeting, we might form the party of elders to ensure those who have joined us enjoy registration and membership without any difficulty.”
Tinubu made the remarks shortly after the NEC unanimously elected Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, current Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, as the new National Chairman of the APC.
The decision follows the resignation of Dr Abdullahi Ganduje.
He commended Ganduje’s contributions to the party and confirmed he would still work with him on developing a “Progressive Doctrine” and establishing a Progressive Institute.
“I gave him an assignment on the formation of a Progressive Doctrine,” Tinubu stated. “We can still take him as a consultant to work with the new chairman.”
The President linked the growing number of defections to the APC’s improving reputation and his administration’s economic performance.
“One of our ardent critics reported the revenue stride—43% achievement. The team is working, and with peace and stability, we will do more,” he said.
In a veiled swipe at the opposition, Tinubu remarked, “It is not a bad idea to abandon a sinking ship and be absent from a coalition of confusion.”
According to Tinubu, 23 governors are currently in the APC, with more expected to join.
He praised the governors for their commitment and endorsed motions to expand the party structure and timelines to accommodate new entrants.
“I think we have 23 governors now, and still counting,” he said. “More members are still coming.”
The President also addressed the economic challenges his administration inherited, describing the economy as “wobbling” and “confused” at the start of his term.
“The economy that we inherited is today stabilised, and we are making progress,” Tinubu affirmed.
He called on party leadership to build a lasting legacy through national development and unity, proposing the creation of a new party secretariat.
“I believe, without hesitation, the motion and the suggestion is carried. Let us work with the FCT Minister to secure appropriate land,” he said.
As the APC positions itself for future political contests, Tinubu stressed the importance of inclusivity and consolidation of the administration’s gains.
Also read: Sanusi Rikiji Appointment Earns Zamfara APC Praise for President Tinubu
“We will work harder and ensure that the essence of our party is not forgotten,” the President concluded.
