2027: APC adopts Tinubu as sole presidential candidate

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has adopted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the sole presidential candidate ahead of 2027 general elections.

The development came following various endorsement and support from the Progressives Governors Forum (PGF) and the leadership of the National Assembly.

Also, some states and political regions have earlier endorsed the President.

Making the declaration Thursday at the first APC National Summit, the Party’s National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, said only the party has power to nominate the candidate.

He said: “As the only body who has the power to field any candidate, I hereby affirmed the various endorsements and declared President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the sole presidential candidate of APC in 2027.”

Ganduje, however warned against friction and division among the ranks of the party across the country.

While canvassing for support for he implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda of Tinubu led administration, Ganduje said the party cannot go into the the 2027 poll divided, unprepared, or reactive adding it behooves party stalwart to ensure a cohesive, disciplined, and ideologically sound party.

“Our goal must not only be to win elections, but to lead with purpose, to earn the trust of Nigerians continuously, and to inspire belief in governance again,” he said.

Ganduje who eulogized the developmental strides recorded under the Tinubu led administration noted that he, alongside members of the National Working Committee (NWC) have gradually transformed the APC from an electoral force into a governing institution.

He said APC’s successive victories at the presidential level, legislative dominance, and control of the majority of Nigerian states and local government affirm the trust and confidence Nigerians continue to place on the party.

“When I assumed office as the National Chairman of the APC, I was well aware of the challenges ahead; internal rifts, structural inconsistencies, external distractions and ideological empress. But with focus, commitment, and collective effort, especially with the support of Mr. President, we are gradually stabilizing the ship, reuniting the fold, and now, we are setting the party towards a clear and coordinated national vision,” he said.

“Thanks to Mr. President, today, we are the ruling party in twenty-two (22) states, controlling the National Assembly, and dominating local government administration in many parts of the country.

“Under my leadership, we have launched the Progressive Institute, which now serves as our ideological hub; a centre for training, policy research, and strategic party development. Most importantly, we have ensured seamless party-government alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda.

“We are currently working on a digital membership database for proper identification and inclusion of every member; a modern, transparent, and inclusive party system.”

Ganduje described the leading opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as one not only gasping for breath but rocked by leadership crises, lack of ideology, and serial defections which have reduced it to a shadow of its former self.

The Kano born politician assured that the APC will continue to grow, not out of desperation, but because of its record of performance, its strategic leadership, and its resonance with the aspirations of Nigerians.

“Your Excellencies and dear members of our party, the journey is far from over. We must not become unworried. Now is the time to deepen our grassroots mobilization, embrace party discipline, and support the President’s agenda with solid loyalty.

“Let us resist internal sabotage and remain focused. Let us engage our communities, listen to the people, and build a political structure that will endure beyond election cycles. As we reflect on the journey so far, let us renew our commitment to the ideals that brought us together. Let us unite behind our leaders especially Mr. President, support our policies and vision, and deliver the Renewed Hope that every Nigerian deserves.

“The APC is not just a party; it is a movement. One built on courage, conviction, and the collective aspiration of over 200 million Nigerians. The APC is here to stay. The APC under my watch is reformed, energized, and expanding. The Renewed Hope Agenda is delivering on its promise.

“I urge all party faithful to remain focused, committed, and ready for the long journey ahead. The Renewed Hope Agenda needs political reinforcement. It needs a strong and united party. It needs every one of you.”