APC Chairman Urges Campaign Council to Face Government Challenges

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, has asked the party’s Presidential Campaign Council to recognize the challenges the Federal Government is facing. This message came as he welcomed the council during its inauguration at the State House Banquet Hall, Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Wednesday.

Yilwatda said, "We have made so much progress but must acknowledge where we have challenges while explaining the objectives, progress and continuing work of the administration."

He added that the APC’s campaign should be built on “a clear record, an honest assessment of the challenges and a credible vision for the future.” He emphasized that the party would seek support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in 2027. He believes that “the administration’s reform agenda and development priorities deserve continued consideration and the opportunity to deliver further results.”

The council’s main job, according to Yilwatda, is to present this case “convincingly with evidence of progress, a clear explanation of our policies and a practical account of what remains to be achieved.” He highlighted the need for the campaign to connect with citizens on important issues like the cost of living, security, jobs, education, healthcare, agricultural productivity and economic opportunity.

Yilwatda urged campaigners to explain how the government plans to tackle these issues. He said they should “listen carefully to the expectations Nigerians place before us.” The chairman noted that under Tinubu, the government has made significant economic reforms that address long-standing challenges and built “a stronger foundation for sustainable growth.”

He asked the council to communicate the importance of the infrastructure developed by the government. This includes “roads, power projects, gas projects, railways, ports, agricultural infrastructure and digital connectivity.” Yilwatda said these investments are crucial for productivity, commerce, employment and national development.

He stated, “Our responsibility is to explain clearly what has been completed, what is progressing and what remains to be done. We must show Nigerians how these investments and reforms can translate into practical improvements in their daily lives.”

Yilwatda recognized the opposition’s “legitimate role in our democracy.” He stated that the election should be “a contest of ideas, records and policies, conducted peacefully and with respect for the Nigerian people.” He added, “The APC will present its case with confidence, defend its record with facts and trust Nigerians to make their choice through a credible democratic process.”

He reminded party members that every level of the APC is important. This includes national leadership, state chapters, local government structures and ward members. He said the council must provide direction, coordination and clear responsibilities. Governors, legislators, party leaders and campaign officials need to work together.

Yilwatda called for women’s “meaningful participation and leadership” in the campaign. He said that the party must engage young Nigerians “as partners in shaping Nigeria, not merely as participants during election campaigns.”

For persons with disabilities, he stressed that campaign activities should be accessible and inclusive. “No Nigerian should be made to feel that a disability diminishes their place in our democracy,” he said. He added, “Confidence is not complacency. It is the determination to prepare thoroughly, work together and earn the trust of the people.”

He concluded that the National Working Committee would work with the council and all party structures. “We have a vision to communicate, a future to build and the confidence of Nigerians to earn,” he stated.

The APC named the council on August 22, with Tinubu as chairman, Vice President Kashim Shettima as vice chairman, former Zamfara State governor Abdulaziz Yari as Director-General and Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma as Secretary. Yilwatda is an additional vice chairman.

Yari also announced that the party’s campaign will kick off in Kaduna on October 24. This will be followed by events in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, and Maiduguri, Borno State. The presidential election is scheduled for January 16, 2027.

Notable figures at the inauguration included Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin and Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu.