The stage is set for the National Convention of the All Progressives Congress (APC), with expectations high for what party stakeholders describe as a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
Speaking during the event, the National Chairman of the Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu Support Group (AATSG), Dr. Abayomi Odunowo, said Nigerians should anticipate a vibrant, transparent, and democratic convention reflective of the APC’s core values.
According to him, the convention will not only be “thrilling and entertaining” but will also reinforce confidence in the administration, which he said has exceeded the expectations of many Nigerians, including those in the diaspora.
Odunowo noted that the ruling party remains committed to delivering on its promises, assuring that Nigerians should expect improved governance outcomes after the convention.
While acknowledging current economic challenges, he attributed them to global realities, stressing that Nigeria, as part of the global system, is not immune.
“Things are quite tight at the moment, but this is a global phenomenon. Very soon, things will begin to fall into place,” he said.
On the increasing number of defections into the APC, Odunowo dismissed concerns that it could threaten Nigeria’s democracy. He described such movements as a natural feature of democratic practice, emphasizing that individuals have the constitutional right to associate freely.
“If people believe their former parties are not performing and they choose to join another, that is democracy in action. The claim that Nigeria is drifting toward a one-party state is simply opposition narrative,” he stated.
He further stressed that political success requires organization, collaboration, and compromise, adding that the APC’s structure and focus have made it an attractive platform for politicians seeking a viable future.
Addressing criticism of the government, Odunowo maintained that no administration is beyond scrutiny, noting that constructive criticism is essential for democratic growth.
“Criticism is healthy. Even within families, people criticize one another—it does not mean there is no support. What matters is that such criticism is objective and leads to necessary adjustments,” he said, adding that the current administration has shown responsiveness to emerging challenges.
Highlighting government achievements, he pointed to progress in education, infrastructure, and healthcare. He said millions of Nigerians now have greater access to education, including technical and vocational training, alongside ongoing investments in roads and health facilities across the country.
Despite these gains, Odunowo acknowledged that longstanding developmental gaps may obscure visible progress, emphasizing the need for better communication of government efforts to the public.
“In my state alone, over 1,600 kilometers of roads have been constructed in the last five years. A lot has been done across sectors, but there is still a need to properly inform Nigerians,” he added.
He concluded that while public criticism is inevitable, the administration remains focused on delivering sustainable development, noting that governance is a continuous process in a complex country like Nigeria.
The APC National Convention is expected to bring together key stakeholders from across the federation, setting the tone for the party’s future direction and reinforcing its commitment to national development.
