.As 57 Lagos LG chairmen renew support

By Olasunkanmi Akoni

The Chairman of 36 Chairmen of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, has called on state leaders of the party to strengthen structures at the grassroots and remain ambassadors of the progressive ideals on which the party was founded in order to boost good governance and consolidate on the successes of President Bola Tinubu’s administration ahead of 2027 general elections.

Ojelabi, chairman APC Lagos, made the remarks on Friday, during a welcome dinner,organised for the 36 APC State Chairmen’s Forum, who are in the state for a three-day visit, held in Victoria Island.

He described the gathering as more than a social event, saying it was an opportunity to celebrate the party ‘s shared history, strengthen the bonds that unite them as one political family, and renew common purpose as leaders.

While welcoming his colleagues Ojelabi reminded them that their duty goes beyond political administration.

“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 stated.

Ojelabi stressed that the APC’s strength rests on “the quality of its leadership; the vitality of its grassroots structures; the discipline of its members and the confidence Nigerians continue to place in our progressive philosophy.

“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 Nigeria’s journey of renewal continues under President Tinubu, noting that the Renewed Hope Agenda reflects a determination to confront longstanding challenges with courage, sincerity and bold reforms.

He therefore, urged party leaders to inspire confidence and provide direction for members.

Ojelabi, commended the National Working Committee led by National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, and assured the national leadership of the state chairmen’s cooperation.

He also paid tribute to Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for “consolidating the progressive legacy of Lagos through strategic investments in infrastructure, transportation, education, healthcare, technology and human capital development.”

Commendation for Conference 57

Ojelabi thanked Conference 57, the umbrella body of local government chairmen, for hosting the dinner. “Your commitment to grassroots leadership, excellent organisation and generous hospitality once again demonstrate that the foundation of every successful political institution begins at the local level,” he said.

He also acknowledged members of the Lagos State House of Assembly, House of Representatives, commissioners, party executives, elders, women, youth, and other stakeholders for their contributions to the APC’s growth.

“May this gathering renew our friendships, deepen our collaboration, and strengthen our resolve to continue building an All Progressives Congress that remains the preferred platform for good governance, democratic consolidation and national development,” Ojelabi said.

Conference 57 renewed support for APC, Tinubu’

Chairman of Conference 57, Sesan Olowa, called on leaders of the APC to strengthen the party from the grassroots and sustain support for President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and Governor Sanwo-Olu’s development vision.

Describing the gathering as an opportunity to engage beyond the formalities of official proceedings, Olowa said such platforms help strengthen old bonds, cultivate new relationships and reinforce the sense of togetherness vital to the party’s growth.

“Your attendance reflects the enduring spirit of unity, mutual respect and shared purpose that has continued to define the All Progressives Congress since its inception,” he told the party leaders.

He stressed that the responsibility of building the party is collective.

“We must continue to strengthen the All Progressives Congress from the grassroots, remain united in purpose and continue to support the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and the developmental vision of our leader in Lagos State, Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu,” he stated.

Olowa urged party leaders to earn public confidence through “purposeful leadership and good governance,” and to remain steadfast to the values that distinguish the APC.

He noted that Conference 57 was proud to host the event because “great institutions are strengthened not only by visionary leadership, but also by meaningful engagement among those entrusted with the responsibility of guiding them.”

According to him, such gatherings foster understanding, deepen cooperation, and encourage the exchange of ideas that benefit both the party and the nation.