The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, has defended the economic reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, describing them as necessary, though painful, steps toward repositioning Nigeria’s economy for sustainable growth.
Speaking in Paris, France, during the inauguration of the new executive committee of the APC France Chapter, Ganduje urged members in the diaspora to remain united and supportive of the administration’s transformation agenda. His remarks were conveyed in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu.
Ganduje commended the efforts of APC members abroad in expanding the party’s base through active recruitment and mobilisation. He also reiterated the party’s commitment to achieving diaspora voting in collaboration with the National Assembly, noting it as an important step toward full political inclusion for Nigerians living overseas.
“While the reforms under President Tinubu may be seen as painful, they are necessary steps to reposition Nigeria’s economy for sustainable growth,” Ganduje stated.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the APC chairman expressed optimism about the party’s prospects, citing internal stability and ongoing defections from other political parties.
“There is peace in the APC, unlike in other parties grappling with internal crises. This stability has created an environment where senators, House of Representatives members, state assembly members, and other political figures are decamping to the APC. We respect our constitution and uphold internal democracy,” he said.
He appreciated the diaspora chapter’s support for President Tinubu’s administration and acknowledged the increased funding for capital projects under the current leadership.
In her remarks, the newly inaugurated Chairperson of the APC France Chapter, Hajjiya Amina Suzuki, emphasised the significance of Nigerians in the diaspora as both economic and political contributors.
“The Nigerian diaspora contributes billions in remittances and investments, but we are also thought leaders and proud ambassadors of Nigeria’s democracy,” she said.
Suzuki appealed to Ganduje and the APC leadership to prioritise the implementation of diaspora voting. “Under your visionary leadership, we believe diaspora voting can become a reality. It is not only possible—it is necessary,” she added.
In a separate development, Ganduje responded to criticism from Alhaji Buba Galadima, a chieftain of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), describing him as a “failed and rejected” politician with no credible political base.
In a statement by his Senior Special Assistant, Oliver Okpala, Ganduje dismissed Galadima’s claims that he lacked electoral value, labelling the NNPP figure as a politician known for “duplicity and incompetence.”
“It is laughable that someone like Galadima would question the electoral value of a two-term governor of Kano State and the current APC National Chairman. His record shows a history of failed political ventures and treachery,” the statement read.
Ganduje accused Galadima of sabotaging political movements he was part of, including the Buhari Organisation, and described him as an outdated politician who has lost relevance in Nigeria’s political landscape.
“Ganduje is a grassroots politician with a proven track record. His developmental projects are still evident across Kano State. In contrast, Galadima has no results to show,” Okpala added.
He concluded by reaffirming that the APC, under Ganduje’s leadership, remains strong and continues to attract new members across the country.
Nzubechukwu Eze
