APC Must Build Stronger Structures as 28 States Not Enough for Future Victories, Charges Tinubu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has cautioned the All Progressives Congress (APC) against complacency, warning that the party’s control of 28 states does not guarantee future electoral victories unless it deliberately strengthens its political structures nationwide.

Tinubu gave the warning on Thursday at the APC National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, ahead of preparations for the 2027 general elections.

The President stressed that the ruling party must focus on building functional and inclusive party structures in states where it currently does not hold governorship positions, noting that failure to do so could lead to declining electoral fortunes.

“What about the states where we have no governors? The party must be vigilant and ready to produce governors,” Tinubu said.
“If the structure is not right, you won’t produce one. The law of diminishing returns will follow you.”

According to him, electoral success is driven by strong grassroots organisation, discipline and sustained engagement, rather than mere numerical advantage or past victories.

The NEC meeting was attended by key party leaders, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, all of whom urged party members to close ranks, maintain unity and strengthen cooperation between the executive and legislative arms of government ahead of the next electoral cycle.

Speaking at the meeting, Vice President Shettima underscored the importance of on-ground political mobilisation, warning against overreliance on social media campaigns.

“Elections are not won on Facebook,” Shettima said, stressing the need for grassroots engagement, ward-level organisation and sustained contact with voters.

Shettima also called for internal cohesion within the APC, saying unity and discipline remain critical to retaining power in 2027.

Senate President Akpabio and Speaker Abbas echoed similar sentiments, emphasising the need for collective responsibility, effective governance and party loyalty to consolidate the APC’s position across the country.

The meeting comes amid growing political realignments and early manoeuvring ahead of the 2027 general elections, with the APC leadership signalling a renewed focus on structure-building, inclusiveness and strategic planning to sustain its dominance at the polls.