President Bola Tinubu has forecasted a surge of defections into the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections, describing the shift as a natural outcome of Nigeria’s dynamic democracy.
Speaking during the APC National Summit at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where he was formally adopted as the party’s sole presidential candidate for 2027, Tinubu said the APC remains the dominant force shaping Nigeria’s future.
“You don’t blame a people bailing out of a sinking ship,” he declared, adding, I’m expecting more to come, that is the game. We are in a constitutional democracy that guarantees freedom of movement and freedom of association. Welcome to the progressives.”
President Tinubu, responding to his endorsement by both the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) and the APC National Working Committee (NWC), said the united support underscores confidence in his leadership.
“The endorsement today, the ‘carry go’ expression, I know road,” he said. “We will lead you on to that promised land.”
He reaffirmed that his administration’s economic recovery strategy is gaining traction and urged Nigerians to embrace optimism.
“The resuscitation of the Nigerian economy is on course. The hope is standing before you — take it on. Nigeria will be industrialized. The next two years will be great,” Tinubu said.
He also praised Vice President Kashim Shettima for his intellectual contributions to the administration, calling him a pivotal member of the government’s “think tank.”
“We have the mission. We have the vision,” he stated, stressing the need for strategic thinking in achieving the goals of his “Renewed Hope” agenda.
For party loyalists still awaiting appointments, Tinubu offered reassurance and urged patience.
“To many of you I have not offered political positions. Be patient. Many things are coming,” he said.
