APC NEC backs Tinubu’s second term, endorses Ganduje

The National Executive Committee (NEC), the highest decision-making body of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has passed a vote of confidence on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, endorsing him for a second term in office ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The NEC also reaffirmed its confidence in the APC National Chairman, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, and the entire National Working Committee (NWC). Additionally, it ratified the zoning of the national chairmanship slot to the North-West geopolitical zone.

During the meeting, chants of “No vacancy at Aso Rock” filled the makeshift NEC hall, symbolising strong party support for President Tinubu’s re-election. Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressives Governors Forum, Hope Uzodinma, moved the motion for the confidence vote, which was seconded by former Edo State Governor, Senator Adams Oshiomhole.

In his motion, Uzodinma commended Tinubu for his bold economic policies since assuming office on May 29, 2023, citing the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of foreign exchange rates as reforms with long-term benefits for Nigeria’s economy.

*APC Defends Tinubu’s Economic Reforms*
Addressing journalists after the NEC meeting, APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, highlighted Tinubu’s achievements, stating that Nigeria’s economic outlook has improved significantly.

“Under this president, we are now consistently exporting more goods and services than we are importing. Our balance of payments has improved drastically, and that is good for the economy. In the oil sector, we have witnessed a significant increase in production, while the agricultural sector has seen a surge in food productivity, leading to a gradual reduction in prices,” Morka stated.

He also commended the administration’s efforts in security, noting that NEC members acknowledged the improved safety conditions across the country and paid tribute to security personnel.

“As a result of all these improvements, members of our National Executive Committee today reaffirmed their absolute vote of confidence in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. His administration’s bold and unprecedented economic reforms are beginning to bear fruit, and we must all support these efforts to ensure continued national progress,” he added.

The NEC also approved the party’s audited financial statements and budget while setting up a seven-member committee, led by Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni, to oversee the co-option of additional members into the NEC.

*Tinubu Calls for Party Unity and Reconciliation*
In his remarks, President Tinubu expressed gratitude to party leaders for their support and urged unity within the APC. He called for the establishment of reconciliation committees in various states to engage aggrieved party members.

“I have heard your remarks about the progress we have made in strengthening national security and food security. I appreciate all Nigerians for their electoral support, and I am pleased with the positive developments in the National Assembly.

“Food prices are beginning to drop, especially during this Ramadan period, and I assure you that we will sustain these progressive changes. Let the NEC find ways to promote our party’s progressive ideals. I promise our governors and Nigerians that I will not let them down,” Tinubu said.

The president also acknowledged the need for a larger venue for future NEC meetings and pledged to work with the relevant ministries to secure a new location.

*Ganduje Seeks New APC Secretariat*
APC National Chairman, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, used the opportunity to appeal for a new national secretariat that would better accommodate party officials and the newly established Progressive Institute.

“As part of our commitment to securing a befitting national secretariat for our ruling party, we have formally applied for land from the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA). I appeal for Mr President’s intervention to ensure the success of this project,” Ganduje stated.

He also revealed that the party inherited legal liabilities amounting to ₦8.987 billion from pre-election and election-related cases.

Furthermore, Ganduje announced the defection of several high-profile politicians to the APC, including former Senate President Anyim Pius Anyim and former Labour Party gubernatorial candidate in Ebonyi State, Edwin Nkwegu, among others.

These resolutions were part of the key outcomes of the NEC meeting held at the APC National Secretariat in Abuja on Wednesday. The meeting was attended by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, and Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu.

Other notable attendees included the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, former Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo-Agege, principal officers of the National Assembly, as well as ministers who are NEC members and APC governors.

However, several prominent party leaders, including former President Muhammadu Buhari, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, and former governors Rotimi Amaechi (Rivers), Nasir El-Rufai (Kaduna), and Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti), were absent. Also missing were former Senate President Ahmed Lawan and former Speaker, now Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila.

The meeting ended with renewed commitments from party leaders to strengthen the APC and consolidate its political dominance ahead of the 2027 elections.