By Muhammed Musa Tsoken
At a critical juncture in Nigeria’s democratic journey, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu delivered a defining address at the 4th Elective National Convention of the All Progressives Congress (APC), setting the tone for party unity, democratic consolidation, and renewed national purpose.
Held at Eagles Square, Abuja, the convention was more than a routine political exercise—it was a strategic moment of reflection and recalibration for Nigeria’s ruling party.
Against the backdrop of economic challenges, political realignments, and growing public expectations, Tinubu’s speech sought to reinforce confidence within party ranks while projecting stability to the broader Nigerian public.
From the outset, the President adopted a tone of gratitude and optimism, acknowledging what he described as divine grace and collective sacrifice that have sustained both the APC and the nation since 2013.
His message was clear: despite present difficulties, Nigeria’s future remains promising under a united and disciplined leadership.
Central to his address was the theme, “Unity in Progress: Consolidating the Renewed Hope Agenda,” which he described as both timely and imperative.
For Tinubu, unity is not merely a political slogan but the foundational principle upon which meaningful development must rest. He warned that without cohesion, even the most ambitious reform agenda would falter.
Reflecting on the origins of the APC, Tinubu revisited the historic merger that birthed the party over a decade ago. He reminded party faithful that the APC emerged from a bold decision by political actors to set aside differences in pursuit of national redemption. That unity, he noted, fundamentally altered Nigeria’s political trajectory and must now be preserved and strengthened.
In a solemn interlude, the President paid tribute to the party’s founding fathers and departed members, particularly former President Muhammadu Buhari. The moment of silence observed in his honour underscored the enduring influence of Buhari’s leadership within the APC’s ideological framework.
Yet, beyond reflection, Tinubu delivered a firm warning against the dangers of internal discord. In one of the most striking portions of his speech, he cautioned that political parties rarely collapse due to electoral defeat but often disintegrate when personal ambition overrides collective interest. He urged members to guard against ego, factionalism, and indiscipline—factors he described as existential threats to party stability.
Importantly, Tinubu sought to redefine the identity of the APC. He rejected the notion of the party as merely a platform for electoral victories, instead presenting it as a vehicle for national transformation. According to him, the APC’s mission extends beyond politics to building a Nigeria where governance is effective, institutions are resilient, and citizens can live with dignity and opportunity.
Addressing growing concerns about democratic space, the President dismissed allegations that the APC is steering Nigeria toward a one-party state. He emphasized his belief in a credible and constructive opposition, noting that democratic progress depends on healthy competition, critical engagement, and policy debate.
On the contentious Electoral Act 2026, Tinubu mounted a robust defense, asserting that the legislation followed due constitutional process, including legislative scrutiny and public participation. He criticized opposition narratives as misleading, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to electoral integrity, the rule of law, and transparent governance.
The convention, therefore, served not only as a platform for internal party decisions but also as a stage for articulating a broader national vision. Tinubu’s message resonated with a call for renewed commitment—urging party members to remain faithful to the ideals of unity, discipline, and service that underpinned the APC’s formation.
For observers, the significance of the address lies in its dual purpose: consolidating party cohesion ahead of future electoral contests while attempting to reassure Nigerians of the administration’s direction. As political dynamics continue to evolve, the success of Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” may well depend on how effectively the APC translates its internal unity into tangible national outcomes.
In the final analysis, the 4th National Convention of the APC may be remembered less for its ceremonies and more for its message: that unity, if sustained, could yet become the ruling party’s most potent instrument for governance and national transformation.
* Ambassador Musa Muhammed Tsoken is the National Coordinator, Asiwaju Again Renewable Hope 2027 and President, APC Initiative for Good Governance (APC-IGG)