Abuja — The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, has reaffirmed that the ruling party’s growing strength across Nigeria is driven by grassroots support, inclusive governance, and visible economic reforms—not merely the defection of state governors.

Professor Yilwatda made the remarks in an extensive interview on Trust Television (Daily Trust TV), where he addressed political developments, economic reforms, party discipline, security cooperation, and preparations for upcoming elections.

“We are riding on a highway. We don’t take anyone for granted, and we pay attention to every detail,” he said.

Grassroots Momentum

The APC chairman noted that while media attention often focuses on governors switching parties, the real driver of the party’s success is the mass movement of ordinary Nigerians—including youths, farmers, women, professionals, and artisans—who are aligning with the APC due to the impact of government policies.

“What is happening across the country goes far beyond governors. People are seeing value and the difference this administration is making,” he stated, citing recent bye-elections where the APC performed strongly even in states without aligned governors. He added that Kano State is showing growing enthusiasm for the party.

Economic Achievements

Highlighting economic gains under the Tinubu administration, Professor Yilwatda said improved fiscal policies have strengthened states’ capacities to deliver development. “Before now, workers went on strike, pensioners barricaded governors from their offices. Today, that era is gone,” he said, noting that monthly allocations from the Federation Account have increased by more than five times in some cases, reducing borrowing needs.

He also said inflation is trending downward, citing World Bank projections that Nigeria is the only African country expected to contribute to global GDP growth this year.

The chairman highlighted key social interventions, including a student loan scheme aimed at empowering children from disadvantaged backgrounds, and financial support to over seven million vulnerable households, with 75% of beneficiaries in rural areas. “These households are praying for this government,” he added.

Party Discipline and Political Engagement

Responding to claims that Nigeria is drifting toward a one-party state, Professor Yilwatda dismissed the notion as baseless, emphasizing that APC’s success is due to hard work, mobilisation, and engagement—not the suppression of opposition.

On Osun State, he disclosed that the APC has nine credible governorship aspirants, all committed to rally behind a consensus candidate ahead of the August election. He also described the political atmosphere in Kano as “electric” due to the party’s growing popularity.

“APC is a disciplined party. Supporters may not all be card-carrying members, but we embrace everyone who believes in our vision,” he said.

Professor Yilwatda praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his selflessness in 2015, supporting President Muhammadu Buhari despite having the structure to run for president himself, and commended Vice President Kashim Shettima for his unwavering support.

Security Cooperation

On Nigeria’s security collaboration with the United States, the APC chairman defended the partnership, saying, “Even the United States relies on multi-layered intelligence collaboration. This is a global best practice, and Nigeria is part of it.”

Concluding, he assured Nigerians that the APC leadership remains focused on service, inclusion, and progress. “We do not underestimate anyone. That is why we work every day. No individual or group gives us sleepless nights,” he said.