Why Political Parties Fail And Nigerians Trust APC — Tinubu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said political parties collapse not only from electoral defeat but from internal decay, warning that “they falter when ego overrides ideology or when ambition replaces discipline,” as he made a case for why Nigerians continue to place their trust in the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking at the party’s 4th elective national convention in Abuja, Tinubu declared that unity—not numbers—remains the APC’s greatest strength. 

“Our greatest strength has never been in our size or numbers, but our unity,” he said, adding that the party must resist tendencies where “individual interests threaten the collective good.”

Labelling the convention as a defining moment, the president said it offered an opportunity to “renew our bond, strengthen our resolve, and recommit ourselves to the ideals that brought us together,” stressing that the APC was founded not merely for electoral victories but as “a vehicle for national transformation.”

Tinubu pushed back against claims of creeping authoritarianism, stating clearly: “We do not seek a one-party state. Democracy thrives on vibrant and healthy competition.”

 He added that he believes in “a credible opposition—one that can challenge, question and help refine policies,” noting that such engagement is essential for “statecraft” and good governance.

He also defended recent electoral reforms, saying criticisms of the Electoral Act were misplaced.

According to him, the law “passed through the crucible of legislative scrutiny, including public hearings,” and reflects Nigeria’s collective effort to “strengthen our electoral system and consolidate democratic rule.”

Highlighting why Nigerians have continued to back the APC since 2023, Tinubu pointed to key achievements of his administration under the Renewed Hope Agenda. 

The country’s first citizen said the government has embarked on major infrastructure development, including “the construction of superhighways and concrete-and-steel roads,” alongside the modernisation of seaports and airports.

On the economy, the president listed a series of indicators he said reflect recovery and stability.

“Our stock market is booming, and listed companies are recording mega profits. Our GDP is growing. We have successively recorded trade surpluses,” he said. 

The Nigerian leader added that inflation has “declined steadily for eight consecutive months to 14.45%, while food prices are easing,” and that the country has seen “12 consecutive months of economic activity expansion.”

Tinubu further said investor confidence has improved significantly, with Nigeria’s Eurobond issuance “oversubscribed by 400%” and the country exiting the Financial Action Task Force grey list, signaling “a decisive return to global financial credibility.” 

He noted renewed foreign interest in the oil and gas sector, as well as strengthened foreign exchange buffers to shield the economy from shocks.

Despite the progress, the president acknowledged lingering challenges in the power sector, including debts and aging infrastructure. 

He revealed plans to establish a Grid Asset Management Company to inject about 1,600 megawatts into the national grid.

The widely reported leader maintained that difficult reforms were necessary, arguing that “no nation rises by hiding from the truth” and that “the sacrifices of today are laying the foundation for Nigeria’s prosperity tomorrow.”

Addressing party members, Tinubu urged discipline and unity before, during, and after the convention. “Let no contest divide us. Let no outcome embitter us. At the end of this convention, our party must be the victor,” he said.

He also called for greater inclusion of young people and women, describing them as central to Nigeria’s future. 

“A party that excludes women weakens itself; a party that empowers women will be stronger and more resilient,” he said, while urging that youth be treated “not as props, but as decision makers.”

Reaffirming the APC’s growth, Tinubu said the influx of governors, lawmakers, and members from other parties reflects “the strength of our beliefs and Nigerians’ trust in our party,” charging leaders to sustain that momentum through “credible leadership and transparent party management.”

The president tied the party’s survival to its founding ideals, warning that its legacy must not be diminished. 

“All the departed members and those of us still alive bearing the torch did not build this party for division and selfishness,” he declared,  adding “Together, we have the duty to ensure that the vision of our founding fathers is not diminished. We must deepen it.”