The All Progressives Congress, APC, State Chairmen’s Forum on Friday commenced its meeting in Lagos with a call for unity, stronger grassroots mobilisation and strategic planning ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Chairman of the Forum and Lagos State APC Chairman, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, made the call while delivering his welcome address at a dinner organised for chairmen from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Ojelabi said the gathering was beyond a social event, describing it as an opportunity to strengthen party cohesion and renew commitment to the ideals of the APC.
He described Lagos as the cradle of modern progressive politics in Nigeria and home of President Bola Tinubu, whose commitment to democracy and national development remained inspirational.
“Distinguished colleagues, tonight is not simply about sharing a meal. It is about celebrating our shared history. It is about strengthening the bonds that unite us as one political family.
“It is about renewing our common purpose as leaders entrusted with preserving and advancing the ideals of the All Progressives Congress,” he said.
Ojelabi said that despite the country’s diversity, members of the APC remained united by their belief in progressive leadership, people-oriented governance and a strong political party.
He said the responsibility of state chairmen extended beyond political administration to safeguarding party structures and promoting internal harmony.
“We are custodians of the party’s structures. We are builders of consensus. We are the promoters of internal harmony.
“We are the bridge between our national leadership and millions of committed members across the wards and local governments of Nigeria,” he said.
The forum chairman said the strength of the APC was not based only on electoral victories but also on the quality of its leadership and the vitality of its grassroots structures.
He urged party leaders to remain committed to building an inclusive, disciplined and democratic political organisation.
“That confidence imposes on us an enduring responsibility to continue building a Party that is inclusive, responsive, disciplined and firmly rooted in democratic principles.
“As leaders, our duty is not merely to prepare for elections but to nurture enduring institutions, mentor emerging leaders, deepen internal democracy and sustain the trust of the Nigerian people,” he said.
Ojelabi said the meeting came as Nigeria continued its reform journey under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
He said the administration was confronting longstanding national challenges through bold reforms aimed at achieving sustainable prosperity.
“History teaches us that transformative leadership often demands patience, resilience and collective sacrifice before the full benefits become evident.
“As leaders of our party, we must continue to inspire confidence, strengthen our grassroots structures, provide direction for our members and remain worthy ambassadors of the progressive ideals upon which this great Party was founded,” he said.
Ojelabi congratulated the APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, on his emergence and pledged the support of state chairmen for the National Working Committee.
He said the forum would continue to cooperate with the party’s national leadership in building a stronger, united and formidable APC.
The chairman also commended Gov.Babajide Sanwo-Olu for sustaining the state’s progressive legacy through investments in infrastructure, transportation, education, healthcare, technology and human capital development.
He praised Conference 57, the umbrella body of Lagos Local Government Chairmen, for hosting the dinner and promoting grassroots leadership.
Ojelabi also acknowledged members of the Lagos State House of Assembly, National Assembly members, commissioners, party executives, elders, women and youth for their contributions to the growth of the APC.
He urged party leaders nationwide to remain united, disciplined and committed to the aspirations of Nigerians.
“My dear colleagues, political parties flourish when their leaders remain united in purpose, respectful in conduct, disciplined in organisation and faithful to the aspirations of the people they serve.
“May this gathering renew our friendships. May it deepen our collaboration.
“May it strengthen our resolve to continue building an All Progressives Congress that remains the preferred platform for good governance, democratic consolidation and national development,” he said.
Ojelabi expressed optimism that the meeting would produce stronger relationships, fresh ideas and renewed commitment to advancing the fortunes of the APC ahead of 2027 elections.