President Bola Tinubu has expressed his expectation of more politicians defecting to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections. Speaking at the APC Renewed Hope Agenda Summit, Tinubu stated that he was happy with the achievements of his administration and the party, and he didn’t expect people to remain in “a sinking ship without a life jacket.” He emphasized that defection was part of the game and that citizens have the constitutional right to choose between associations.

Tinubu highlighted the progress made by his administration, including economic reforms that have received positive reviews both locally and internationally. He thanked party leaders, the National Working Committee, and the Progressive Governors’ Forum for their support and collective endorsement of him for a second term.

The President acknowledged the challenges encountered since assuming office in May 2023 but assured Nigerians that the reforms were necessary for the country’s progress. He cited the elimination of arbitrage-driven multiple foreign exchanges and upcoming tax reforms as significant steps towards attracting foreign direct investments and improving the standard of living.

The APC summit, which reviewed the administration’s two-year performance, saw party leaders and members endorse Tinubu for a second term in 2027. The party chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, declared that Tinubu would be the party’s sole candidate for the presidential elections, urging members to rally behind the President and support the Renewed Hope Agenda.