President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has charged the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and the Progressive Governors Forum to immediately secure land and begin construction of a befitting national secretariat for the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking at the 14th National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the ruling party in Abuja, the President stressed the need for the APC to leave behind enduring structures and expand its institutional presence.

“We should put a committee together of progressive governors to find an appropriate land and build an insect area. I take that. I think we should do that,” Tinubu said, prompting applause from party leaders. He then declared, “I believe with that recitation, the motion and the suggestion is carried.”

The President’s call for a permanent secretariat comes amid ongoing efforts by the APC to strengthen internal structures, consolidate membership, and deepen its grassroots influence ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Tinubu also used the platform to appreciate party leaders, governors, and other stakeholders for their support. He particularly commended Vice President Kashim Shettima for his dignified role during the funeral of the former national chairman of the APC.

“Let me, thank the Vice President for a very successful role he played to myself, the country, he brought back with dignity the legacy of our great party,” Tinubu said, visibly moved by the memory. He described the moment as “emotionally distraught for me, emotionally distraught for all of us.”

Paying tribute to deceased party stalwarts, Tinubu acknowledged their contributions to national development and offered prayers for their eternal rest. “May Almighty God forgive their shortcomings and grant them eternal freedom,” he said.

Highlighting his administration’s efforts, Tinubu declared that the Nigerian economy has stabilised, despite the challenges inherited by his government. “I can report to you today that the economy that you inherited, wobbling for views, is today stabilised, and we are making growth,” he said, citing recent gains in revenue performance.

He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to national security and food stability, noting the progress made in counterterrorism efforts. “Thousands of terrorists and bandits have been neutralise, the fear is going down. However, he cautioned that “we still have to be very, very serious, vigilant, and make sure that we put additional investment in our people.”

On internal party affairs, Tinubu urged the newly elected National Chairman to establish a committee that would tour the country to facilitate the smooth registration of new members, especially recent defectors.

“Our doors are still open and we should embrace them wholeheartedly, Those who have joined us should enjoy the registration and the membership of our party without any difficulty,” he said.

Tinubu also praised the governors of Akwa Ibom and Plateau states Governor Umo Eno and Governor Caleb Mutfwang for joining the APC, reaffirming that the party remains open to all progressives. He congratulated the Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on the Supreme Court affirmation of his mandate and celebrated the launch of the Edo Line transport initiative.

Addressing the need for deeper community engagement, Tinubu challenged APC governors to do more for their constituents. “Nigerians are still complaining at the grassroots. So you, the governors, you have to wet the grass more,” he said, stressing the importance of responsive governance.

“Now that the economy is stabilised, there is no other fear for the country except upward movement and sustained growth,” he said as he closed his remarks with prayers for the nation.

“May God bless our democracy, and bless Nigeria, Federal Republic of this country.” (AriseNews TV)