President Bola Tinubu on Thursday said he expects more politicians to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections, citing the party’s progress and ongoing reforms.
Speaking at the APC Renewed Hope Agenda Summit at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja, Tinubu likened the opposition to a “sinking ship without a life jacket,” saying defections are a normal part of political life.
“I am happy with what we have accomplished and expecting more people to come; that’s the game,” Tinubu said, according to a statement by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga.
At the summit, attended by APC leaders, National Working Committee members, 22 state governors, and National Assembly leaders, Tinubu received unanimous endorsements for a second term in office.
The President defended his administration’s economic reforms, noting they are attracting foreign investments and improving the country’s economic outlook.
He acknowledged the challenges faced since assuming office in May 2023, but insisted the tough decisions—such as exchange rate unification and tax reforms—were necessary for long-term growth.
Tinubu praised members of his cabinet and the National Assembly for their support, saying their collective efforts were crucial in advancing the Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on economic stability, security, anti-corruption, and poverty reduction.
Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, Hope Uzodimma, moved a motion of confidence in Tinubu and endorsed him for 2027.
The motion was seconded by Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani. Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas also endorsed the President for a second term.
APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje declared Tinubu the party’s sole candidate for the 2027 presidential election and called for unity among party members to avoid internal divisions.
The summit reviewed the administration’s two-year performance in key areas including health, infrastructure, and national security.