• SSG: He’s like ex-Singapore president, Lee Kuan Yew
From Romanus Ugwu and Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu, speaking at the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Summit yesterday, welcomed the influx of endorsements he received and new members joining the party, declaring, “Welcome to the progressives, sweep them clean.” He expressed optimism about receiving more endorsements ahead of the upcoming elections.
Tinubu reaffirmed his partnership with Vice President Kashim Shettima, referring to him as part of his team, although it remains unclear if Shettima will continue on the ticket, as recent endorsements have not mentioned him.
In a striking statement, the President said: “There’s nothing wrong with a one-party system,” emphasising the strength and unity he envisions for the APC as Nigeria’s leading political force.
On the economic front, Tinubu highlighted ongoing reforms, saying, “Our economic reforms are working. There’s nothing good that comes easy.” He reiterated his administration’s decision to remove fuel subsidies, describing subsidies as “the grandparent of corruption.” Without mentioning names, he referenced the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) recovery of over 750 properties linked to a corrupt individual.
Turning to the legislative arm, he challenged the National Assembly leadership, asking, “Senate President, Speaker, where are the tax bills? I hope they are on their way.” He urged a swift passage of critical legislation to support his economic agenda.
The President also called on Nigerians to remain resilient, promising to listen to their concerns. “We have the opportunity to make this continent a great one, not just Nigeria,” he said, while cautioning that indiscipline, corruption and abuse of power remain significant barriers.
Looking ahead, he pledged that Nigeria’s economic revival was underway and that the country would be industrialised within the next few years. “We have the mission, we have the vision,” he declared, adding that while he cannot offer political positions to everyone, he urged patience and unity within the party.
Closing his address, he reaffirmed APC’s position as the party of choice, symbolised by the broom. “Sweep the dust away. Thank you for your endorsements,” he said.
Meanwhile, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, has likened President Tinubu’s leadership to that of Singapore’s founding father, Lee Kuan Yew.
The former Benue State governor applauded President Tinubu’s “reform-driven governance and performance as visionary and transformative notwithstanding public criticism over economic hardship and policy decisions.
“In just two years, we have witnessed impactful decisions, strategic reforms, and commitment to national development.
“Mr President (Tinubu)’s leadership reminds us of the legendary Lee Kuan Yew of Singapore, the man whose foresight, discipline, and tenacity transformed a small nation into a global model of prosperity and order. This is the quality of leadership Nigeria is privileged to have today in President Bola Tinubu,” the SGF stated.
Harry Lee Kuan Yew (September 16, 1923 –March 23, 2015) was a Singaporean politician who ruled as the first Prime Minister of Singapore from 1959 to 1990. He is widely recognised as the founding father of the modern Singaporean state. His leadership, often categorised by academics as being dictatorial but benevolent, helped transform post-independence Singapore into a highly developed country during his tenure.
Lee stepped down as Prime Minister in 1990 but continued to serve in the Cabinet as Senior Minister until 2004 and subsequently as Minister Mentor until his retirement in 2011. Throughout his political career, he remained an influential figure in shaping Singapore’s domestic and foreign policies.
Akume attributed the recent wave of defections from opposition parties such as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP) to the APC, to the party’s achievements and inclusive ideology.
According to him, Nigerians are joining the APC not on the basis of promises but due to visible results and renewed purpose.
“People are joining our party, the APC, not because of mere promises but because they are experiencing concrete results.
“They see purpose, they see mission and meaning, and they see the bright future ahead. And to those still watching from afar, I say our doors are wide open,” he said.
He called on party members to begin early mobilisation efforts ahead of the 2027 general elections, urging unity and dedication.
“The APC is a movement of progress and inclusiveness because nation-building is not the job of a few, it is a collective task,” he stated. “Everyone has a role to play, and we welcome more Nigerians who believe in our ideas and our inspirations.
“As we look ahead to 2027, now is the time to double down on our efforts. We are beginning now not just to campaign but to mobilise by showcasing the achievements of the APC under the leadership of Mr President — by amplifying his integrity, foresight, and compassion, and by being ambassadors of peace, discipline, and national unity.”
Akume concluded by urging cooperation within the party to ensure national progress.
“As party members, let us embrace collaboration and cooperation, ensure peace and unity, and sustain Nigeria on the path of greatness. The APC is not just a party but a vision, and with your continued support, that vision will endure and triumph abundantly.”