President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday announced that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) would be expanded so as to inject fresh ideas into the government.

The President made this known at the meeting of National Executive Council (NEC) of All Progressives Congress (APC) held at the national secretariat of the party in Abuja.

He emphasised that FEC would be expanded to bring in more supporters at the federal level.

He said “by the same token, the compressed Federal Executive Council will be expanded to bring in more supporters at federal level, with fresh ideas to be injected into government.”

The President expressed regret over the inability of his administration to re-constitute boards of parastatals as earlier promised.

He, however, reassured that the appointment of members of the affected boards and parastatals would soon be announced.

He said “last year, I said we would re-constitute boards of parastatals. I must regret the fact that we have not done so, for many reasons.

“Some of us in this meeting may know I had given instructions since October 2015 for this exercise to start.

“But there have been inordinate delays through several committees in an attempt to get the balance right and to make sure all parts of the country are equitably represented.

“On the other hand, I am keenly aware that our supporters are very eager for these appointments to be announced.

“By the Grace of God, these appointments will be announced soon, especially now that the economy is improving; we will have the resources to cater for the appointees.”

The President, who narrated the achievements of his administration, noted that Nigeria’s prestige had gone up.

According to him, Nigeria is now credit-worthy, a clear testimony of which is indicated in the over-subscription of the Euro-Bond four times.

“We can be proud of our achievements in the last two years, Boko Haram, Niger Delta, regular fuel, improved power, TSA, agriculture and fertilizer, above all, the knowledge that corruption will not be tolerated in this government. We all know there is CHANGE.

“Nevertheless, we are not resting on our oars. I am quite aware of the challenges before us.”

President Buhari commended the leadership of the National Assembly led by President Bukola Saraki and Speaker Yakubu Dogara.

He also acknowledged the cooperation and understanding of the National Assembly, including some non-APC members who rose above petty party interests and acted in national interest.

He thanked state governors who faced stiff challenges, especially their determination to maintain unity and tolerance among diverse communities in their respective states.

“This is in the face of unnecessary politically-motivated strife and violence.

“Credit should go to APC governors for extending their hand of fellowship to their colleagues from other parties.”

President Buhari urged APC members to remain united and rise above petty or personal quarrels “so as to achieve the desired CHANGE in the country.” (NAN)

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