President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions, declaring that the Electoral Act 2026 represents a collective national effort to deepen electoral integrity and consolidate democratic governance.
Speaking at the 4th Elective National Convention of the All Progressives Congress (APC) held at Eagle Square, Abuja, on Friday, the President said the Act projects the government’s resolve to uphold the rule of law, ensure credible elections and protect the sanctity of the ballot.
He pointed out that the legislation underwent due legislative processes, including public hearings, and the National Assembly passed it in accordance with constitutional provisions.
“Let me reiterate, especially to those who often lament and misunderstand us: we do not seek a one-party state. Democracy thrives on vibrant and healthy competition. As a statesman and political leader, I believe in a credible opposition—one that can challenge, question and help refine policies. This is how statecraft improves and achieves good governance. That is how nations advance.
While we welcome criticism, the constant attacks by opposition groups on the Electoral Act 2026 are a disservice to the Nigerian people. It is public knowledge that the processes leading to the amendment of the 2022 Electoral Act passed through the crucible of legislative scrutiny, including public hearings. The National Assembly, elected by the Nigerian people in accordance with the 1999 Constitution, passed the Electoral Act. “The President added.
President Tinubu decries persistent attacks on the 2026 Electoral Act by opposition groups, describing them as unhelpful and a disservice to Nigerians.
“The Act reflects our collective quest as a nation to strengthen our electoral system and consolidate democratic rule. Therefore, our commitment is to uphold the rule of law, conduct credible elections and protect the integrity of our elections, and continue building a stronger, secure, and united nation.” He said.
He maintained that while constructive criticism is welcome in a democracy, misrepresentation of reforms undermines national progress. Reiterating the philosophy behind his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the President said the policy framework is not a campaign slogan but a deliberate governance blueprint aimed at national renewal.
He acknowledged the challenges associated with ongoing reforms, stressing the need for difficult but necessary decisions to reposition the country for long-term prosperity.
President Tinubu stressed that Nigerians’ current sacrifices are establishing the groundwork for a more stable and prosperous future. He noted that no nation can achieve sustainable growth by avoiding hard truths or maintaining inefficient economic practices.
“When Nigerians reaffirmed our leadership of the country as the governing party in 2023, we made a solemn promise to chart a new course for national renewal through the Renewed Hope Agenda. That agenda was not conceived as just another campaign slogan. It was conceived as a governing philosophy.
“We knew the road to reform would be tough. We knew rebuilding Nigeria would require courage, patience, and difficult decisions. But we also knew: no nation rises by hiding from the truth. No economy grows by sustaining wasteful subsidies or dysfunctional priorities. No future is built on perpetual self-denial.”
The President also dismissed insinuations of a move towards a one-party state, affirming his belief in a vibrant multi-party democracy anchored on credible opposition. He said healthy political competition remains essential for refining policies and strengthening governance outcomes.
The president emphasised that the APC was founded not merely as a platform for electoral victory but as a vehicle for national transformation, committed to building functional institutions, expanding opportunities, enhancing security, and reducing poverty across all regions of the country.
“That is why we chose the path of reform, and I assure you: The sacrifices of today are laying the foundation for Nigeria’s prosperity tomorrow. Our leaders, party members, and supporters can take pride in the success we have achieved in redirecting our country.
“Therefore, this Convention must send one clear message to Nigerians and the world: Our party is strong, united, focused and ready for the future,” President Tinubu added.
Reflecting on the party’s evolution over the past 13 years, Tinubu said the APC emerged from a historic coalition of patriotic forces determined to rescue Nigeria from economic decline and reposition it for growth.
He paid tribute to the party’s founding members and called for a moment of silence in honour of the late President Muhammadu Buhari, acknowledging his role as the first elected leader produced by the party.
“We are united around a shared belief: that our country can be greater and better served, that democracy must work for every Nigerian; that leadership must be anchored in vision, discipline, justice, and development.
“That historic unity gave birth to a movement that changed Nigeria’s political landscape forever. Today, as we reflect, we do so with deep appreciation for the founding fathers, women, youth, and party faithful who built this platform with sweat, courage, and conviction,” the President added.
On the convention’s theme, “Unity in Progress: Consolidating the Renewed Hope Agenda,”, the President described the gathering as a defining moment in the party’s history and Nigeria’s democratic journey.
He urged members to strengthen unity, renew their commitment to shared ideals, and project a clear message that the APC remains cohesive, forward-looking, and ready to lead the country into the future.
Youth Inclusion
President Tinubu further stressed the need for greater youth inclusion in the party’s leadership structure, saying the APC must create more opportunities for young people to participate meaningfully in decision-making rather than being treated as mere political spectators.
He said the party must deliberately raise a new generation of progressive leaders who are politically engaged, intellectually grounded, morally disciplined and deeply committed to national development.
He also underscored the importance of women’s inclusion, noting that any political party that sidelines women weakens its strength and relevance. He added that the APC will respond to the increasing calls for broader female representation and will take decisive steps to ensure that more women occupy leadership positions within party organs and in government at all levels.
“To the women of Nigeria and our party, I say, ‘Your role in our growth and stability is essential. This party must continue to open wider spaces for women to lead, influence policy, and shape Nigeria’s democracy.” He noted.
President Tinubu further charged those expected to emerge from the convention with leadership responsibilities to discharge their mandate with humility, fairness, and fidelity to the party’s ideals.
He said the future of the APC and the stability of Nigeria’s democracy would depend largely on the quality, integrity and vision of those entrusted with leadership