Yilwatda: APC Growth Driven by Grassroots Support and Economic Progress, Not Just Governor Defections

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, stated that the party's expanding influence across Nigeria is attributed to grassroots support, inclusive governance, and evident economic reforms rather than merely the switch of governors to the party.

In a detailed television interview on Monday, Yilwatda discussed significant political developments, economic reforms, and the party's readiness for upcoming elections.

He reiterated, via a statement from his Special Adviser on Media and Communications Strategy, Abimbola Tooki, that the APC remains dedicated to national progress and democratic strengthening.

Yilwatda highlighted that, despite media focus on governors' defections, the fundamental narrative centers around a substantial number of ordinary Nigerians—including youth, farmers, women, professionals, and artisans—who are increasingly joining the APC due to the favorable effects of government policies.

"We are on a fast track. We do not overlook anyone and recognize the importance of every detail. The developments nationwide extend far beyond just governors. Citizens can see the value and the positive changes this administration is implementing," he declared.

He referenced recent by-elections where the APC excelled, even in states governed by non-APC leaders, indicating a growing momentum in Kano State towards APC support fueled by a palpable excitement among the populace.

Yilwatda commended the significant economic progress achieved under President Bola Tinubu's leadership, stating that governors are now in a better position to foster development due to enhanced fiscal policies.

The chairman noted that the era of workers' strikes and protests from pensioners against governors has ended, with more than five times the usual revenue being generated from the Federation Account, thereby decreasing the reliance on debt.

He pointed out that inflation is decreasing, with World Bank projections indicating that Nigeria stands out as the only African nation expected to contribute to global GDP growth this year.

Yilwatda stressed that the APC-led administration is committed to being responsive, revealing that when citizens raised concerns regarding rising food prices and airline issues, the government acted swiftly to resolve these challenges.

In response to accusations of Nigeria trending towards a one-party system, he dismissed such claims as unfounded, asserting, "Our legal framework does not support a one-party state, and the APC will never promote that."

Additionally, APC has appointed Senator Hope Uzodimma, Governor of Imo State and Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF), as the head of the 73-member Central Coordination Committee for the party's 2026 National Convention.

Senator Ajibola Basiru, the National Secretary of APC, announced that Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State would serve as Vice Chairman of the committee, with Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State taking on the role of Secretary.

Senator Bala Na’Allah expressed skepticism over the notion that recent defections to the APC would inevitably result in electoral victory, stressing that actual performance and public trust will be the ultimate determinants in future elections.

Na’Allah, who is a founding member of the APC, voiced these thoughts during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily, commenting on the growing trend of defections from opposition to the ruling party.

While acknowledging that defections could garner attention, he asserted that they do not automatically secure electoral success.

He noted that many of those joining the APC are influential political leaders with established followings in their respective states, creating an impression of the party's strengthening.

However, Na’Allah insisted such transitions should not be mistaken for guaranteed electoral success, stating, "Defections do not always dictate a party's success. People switching is not enough to guarantee victory in the elections."

He clarified, "It is necessary for the APC to demonstrate its effectiveness to gain public confidence and deliver on its commitments for future success."

Reflecting on the origins of APC, Na’Allah mentioned that the party was founded with a clear vision of altering Nigeria's political landscape during the time of the People's Democratic Party's (PDP) rule, aimed at correcting what they perceived as a flawed direction.

"As a founding member, I can confidently affirm that no political party developed with better intentions than the APC," he asserted.

He emphasized that beyond merely attracting defectors, the APC must continue engaging with Nigerians, addressing their concerns, and showcasing its capability to deliver results, stating that this is crucial for the party's success in the upcoming elections.