The Chairman of the Forum of All Progressives Congress (APC) State Chairmen, Cornelius Ojelabi, has called on party leaders across the country to strengthen the APC’s grassroots structures, promote internal democracy, and sustain unity as the party works to consolidate its position ahead of future political contests.
Speaking at a welcome dinner organised for the 36 APC state chairmen and their counterpart from the Federal Capital Territory in Lagos, Ojelabi said the responsibility of state chairmen extends beyond electioneering to building enduring institutions and maintaining harmony within the party.
He described the gathering as an opportunity to deepen collaboration among party leaders and renew their commitment to the ideals of progressive governance.
According to him, the strength of the APC lies not only in its electoral victories but also in the quality of its leadership, vibrant grassroots structures, discipline among members, and public confidence in the party’s progressive philosophy.
“We are custodians of the party’s structures, builders of consensus, promoters of internal harmony and the bridge between our national leadership and millions of committed members across the country,” he said.
Ojelabi urged party leaders to remain focused on strengthening the APC’s internal democratic processes, mentoring emerging leaders, and sustaining public trust.
He also expressed support for President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, saying the administration’s reforms require patience, resilience, and collective sacrifice before their full benefits become evident.
The APC state chairmen’s forum chairman congratulated the party’s National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, on his leadership and pledged the cooperation of state chairmen with the National Working Committee to build “a stronger, more united and more formidable party.”
Ojelabi also commended Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for what he described as continued investments in infrastructure, transportation, education, healthcare, technology, and human capital development, saying the administration has sustained Lagos’ progressive legacy.
He further appreciated Conference 57, the umbrella body of Lagos Local Government chairmen, for hosting the reception, noting that strong political institutions are built on effective grassroots leadership.
Earlier, Chairman of Conference 57, Abdullahi Sesan Olowa, said the dinner was organised to foster stronger relationships among APC leaders and reinforce the spirit of unity within the party.
Olowa said beyond official engagements, the gathering provided an avenue for dialogue, exchange of ideas, and renewed commitment to the APC’s shared objectives.
He urged party leaders to continue strengthening the APC from the grassroots while supporting the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu and the developmental programmes of Governor Sanwo-Olu.
According to him, meaningful engagement among party leaders remains essential to sustaining a vibrant political institution capable of delivering good governance and maintaining the confidence of Nigerians.
The event was attended by APC state chairmen from across the federation, members of the Lagos State Executive Committee, legislators, commissioners, ward executives, party elders, women, and youth leaders.