President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday ruled out plans for a one-party state in Nigeria, declaring that democracy thrives on strong opposition while defending his administration’s reforms as necessary sacrifices to secure long-term national prosperity.
Speaking at the 4th Elective National Convention of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at Eagles Square, Abuja, the President said the governing party remains committed to democratic competition, even as he called for unity within the party to consolidate his administration’s “Renewed Hope Agenda.”
“Let me reiterate, especially to those who often lament and misunderstand us: we do not seek a one-party state. Democracy thrives on vibrant and healthy competition. As a statesman and political leader, I believe in a credible opposition—one that can challenge, question and help refine policies.”
Tinubu described the convention’s theme, “Unity in Progress: Consolidating the Renewed Hope Agenda,” as timely, stressing that unity remains the party’s strongest pillar.
“Our greatest strength has never been in our size or numbers, but our unity. Political parties do not fail only through electoral defeats. Often, they falter when ego overrides ideology or when ambition replaces discipline.”
Tinubu Defends Economic Reforms
The President acknowledged the difficulties Nigerians face but insisted that ongoing reforms were already yielding results.
“We knew the road to reform would be tough. We knew rebuilding Nigeria would require courage, patience, and difficult decisions. But we also knew: no nation rises by hiding from the truth.”
He added: “The sacrifices of today are laying the foundation for Nigeria’s prosperity tomorrow.”
Tinubu listed achievements including infrastructure development, tax reforms, improved investor confidence, rising GDP growth, declining inflation, and increased foreign investment in oil and gas.
According to him, “Our stock market is booming, and listed companies are recording mega profits. Our GDP is growing. We have successively recorded trade surpluses. Inflation has declined steadily for eight consecutive months to 14.45%, while food prices are easing.”
Tribute to Buhari, Call for Unity
During the address, Tinubu also paid tribute to the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, urging party members to observe a moment of silence.
“Let us stand and observe a moment of silence in memory of our first leader and the first elected president produced by our party, President Muhammadu Buhari.”
The President warned party members against internal divisions, urging leaders to prioritise collective interest over personal ambition.
“All the departed members and those of us still alive bearing the torch did not build this party for division and selfishness. Together, we have the duty to ensure that the vision of our founding fathers is not diminished.”
Youths, Women Get Fresh Assurance
Tinubu also pledged greater inclusion for young people and women in party leadership and governance.
“You are not only the future of Nigeria. You are our hope for a more glorious and assured future… This party must continue to open more doors for youth participation, not as props, but as decision makers.”
Addressing women, he added: “A party that excludes women weakens itself; a party that empowers women will be stronger and more resilient.”
Call for Peaceful Convention
The President urged delegates and aspirants to maintain unity during the convention, regardless of outcomes.
“Let no contest divide us. Let no outcome embitter us. At the end of this convention, our party must be the victor. We are one family, marching forward with clarity, discipline, and purpose.”
Tinubu concluded by expressing optimism about Nigeria’s future and the continued growth of the APC.
“This growth demonstrates the strength of our beliefs and Nigerians’ trust in our Party. My charge to you is to sustain this expansive political structure through credible leadership and transparent party management.”
The APC convention, held at Eagles Square, brought together governors, lawmakers, party leaders and thousands of delegates from across the country to elect new national executives and chart the party’s direction ahead of the 2027 general elections.