posted 23rd May 2025
Tinubu Touts APC Achievements at Renewed Hope Summit Amid Economic Hardship and Rising Insecurity
Abuja, 23 May 2025 – President Bola Tinubu has rejected claims that Nigeria is sliding towards a one-party state, crediting the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s growing support to its achievements in under two years. Speaking at the APC Renewed Hope Agenda Summit at the State House Conference Centre on Thursday, Tinubu defended his administration’s economic reforms, even as Nigerians grapple with severe economic hardship and escalating insecurity across the country.
The summit, attended by APC leaders, the National Working Committee, National Assembly leadership, and the Progressive Governors’ Forum—comprising 22 governors—reviewed the administration’s performance in sectors like health, infrastructure, and security. The gathering unanimously endorsed Tinubu for a second term in 2027, a move that has sparked criticism given the widespread suffering attributed to his policies.
Tinubu’s economic reforms, including the withdrawal of fuel subsidies and exchange rate liberalisation, have triggered rampant food inflation, with prices soaring beyond the reach of many Nigerians. The nation’s debt has nearly tripled under his watch, further straining the economy. While the President hailed the elimination of arbitrage-driven multiple foreign exchange rates as a blow to corruption, citing the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s recovery of over 750 properties from one individual, critics argue these measures have plunged millions into poverty. “We couldn’t just afford to spend the future of our children and unborn babies,” Tinubu said, acknowledging the challenges since assuming office in May 2023 but insisting the reforms are yielding results.
However, the summit’s upbeat tone has been overshadowed by public discontent. Many Nigerians view the APC and Tinubu’s regime as disastrous, pointing to the opulent lifestyles of party leaders while ordinary citizens struggle to afford basic necessities. “Nothing good comes easy in life. Sometimes, only hard decisions can make things easy in the future,” Tinubu said, but for many, the promised future remains elusive.
Insecurity has also worsened, with the North East, North West, Benue axis, Plateau State, and parts of the South East grappling with unprecedented violence. Banditry, kidnappings, and insurgent attacks have left communities devastated, undermining Tinubu’s pledge to improve security nationwide. Critics argue that the administration’s focus on political consolidation has distracted from addressing these pressing crises.
Despite the challenges, Tinubu claimed his reforms have attracted foreign direct investment, which he said will create jobs and improve living standards. He also hinted at forthcoming tax reforms to stabilise the economy. “A one-party system is not suitable for democracy. We are one party ruling and carrying on with the aspirations of Nigerians,” he said, adding, “You don’t expect people to remain in a sinking ship without a life jacket.”
The Progressive Governors’ Forum Chairman, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, praised Tinubu’s “visionary leadership” and moved a motion endorsing him for 2027, seconded by Kaduna State Governor Senator Uba Sani. Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas also backed Tinubu’s re-election, lauding his inclusive leadership. APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje declared Tinubu the party’s sole candidate for 2027, urging members to reject internal sabotage and engage communities.
Ganduje called for renewed commitment to the APC’s principles, rallying members to “deliver the Renewed Hope Nigerians rightfully deserve.” However, with many Nigerians questioning the administration’s priorities, the summit has done little to quell accusations that the APC is out of touch with the public’s plight.
Tinubu thanked the Federal Executive Council, party leadership, and National Assembly, noting that the administration is “just halfway through the journey that started 24 months ago.” He reaffirmed his commitment to tackling economic instability, improving security, reducing corruption, reforming governance, and lifting Nigerians out of poverty. Yet, as economic woes and insecurity intensify, many believe the APC’s Renewed Hope Agenda has so far delivered more hardship than hope.
