The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has inaugurated the executive committee of the APC France Chapter, urging Nigerians in the diaspora to throw their full support behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reform-driven administration.
The inauguration ceremony, held in Paris over the weekend, attracted APC faithful from across Europe. Ganduje underscored the critical role of the diaspora in nation-building and emphasized the importance of unity in advancing the APC’s agenda beyond Nigeria’s borders.
In his keynote address, the APC Chairman acknowledged that some of President Tinubu’s reforms may be challenging in the short term, but insisted they are vital for repositioning Nigeria’s economy for long-term growth.
“These reforms may seem painful now, but they are necessary to lay the foundation for a stronger and more sustainable economy,” Ganduje said.
The event also served as a platform to reiterate the party’s commitment to institutional reforms, including the push for diaspora voting. Ganduje said the APC is working closely with the National Assembly to ensure Nigerians abroad can vote in future elections.
“We are committed to ensuring that diaspora Nigerians are fully involved in the political process. Your voices matter, and your contributions to national development are invaluable,” he stated.
In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu, Ganduje applauded the efforts of diaspora chapters in expanding the party’s global reach through grassroots mobilization and membership drives.
He also referenced recent meetings of the APC National Executive Committee (NEC), which passed a vote of confidence on President Tinubu, described him as a “reformer” who has brought about significant economic changes.
The newly inaugurated Chairlady of the APC France Chapter, Hajjiya Amina Musa Baba Suzuki, in her response, described Nigerians in the diaspora as “soft-power diplomats” who play crucial roles in advocacy, investment, and democratic participation.
“We are not just economic contributors; we are also political stakeholders and proud ambassadors of Nigeria. Diaspora voting must become a reality under this administration,” she said.
Other dignitaries at the event included the wife of the APC National Chairman, Professor Hafsat Ganduje; APC National Women Leader, Dr. Mary Alile; Chairman of APC Chairmen in Europe, Hon. Tunde Doherty; and the Oba Yoruba of France, HRM Oba Aderounmu Bamidele Sadiq, Ilufemiloye I of France.
The event mark a significant step in strengthening the APC’s global structure and enhancing its support base ahead of the 2027 general elections.