By Emmanuel Kwada
In a vibrant display of political unity and ambition, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), inaugurated the executive committee of the APC France Chapter in Paris over the weekend. The event marked a significant step in expanding the party’s global footprint while reinforcing support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s transformative Renewed Hope Agenda.
Addressing a gathering of prominent APC diaspora members, Ganduje underscored the critical role of Nigerians abroad in bolstering the party and the nation.
“We appreciate you for holding the banner of our party, expanding its membership, and supporting President Tinubu, especially in light of the critical reforms he is undertaking,” he declared. He acknowledged the challenges posed by these reforms, describing them as “painful but necessary steps” to reposition Nigeria’s economy for long-term prosperity.
We are working with the National Assembly to ensure full political inclusion for our diaspora community
In a statement released Monday by his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu, Ganduje highlighted the diaspora’s contribution to the APC’s growth through active recruitment and mobilization.
He also reaffirmed the party’s commitment to achieving diaspora voting rights, a long-standing demand of Nigerians abroad. “We are working with the National Assembly to ensure full political inclusion for our diaspora community,” he assured.
Ganduje pointed to tangible progress under Tinubu’s leadership, noting increased funding for capital development—a fact he said governors and local government chairmen could confirm. He cited recent party meetings, including the National Caucus and National Executive Committee (NEC), where a vote of confidence was overwhelmingly passed in favor of the President. “He is a reformer who has introduced significant changes, especially in the economic sector,” Ganduje emphasized.
Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, the APC Chairman expressed confidence in the party’s stability and growing appeal. “There is peace in the APC, unlike other parties battling internal crises. Many notable figures—Senators, House members, and State Assembly lawmakers—are decamping to our party because we respect our constitution and practice internal democracy,” he said.
The newly inaugurated Chairlady of the APC France Chapter, Hajjiya Amina Musa Baba Suzuki, echoed Ganduje’s sentiments, emphasizing the diaspora’s multifaceted contributions to Nigeria. “We contribute billions in remittances and investments, but we are also thought leaders and proud ambassadors of Nigeria’s democracy,” she stated. Suzuki called for greater support for diaspora chapters, describing them as “soft-power diplomats, advocates, and connectors” between Nigeria and the global community.
In a direct appeal to Ganduje, Suzuki passionately advocated for diaspora voting. “Under your visionary leadership, we believe this can become a reality. It is not only possible—it is necessary. We urge you to make this dream come true during this administration. Where there is a will, there is always a way.”
Under your visionary leadership, we believe this can become a reality. It is not only possible—it is necessary
The event drew a distinguished crowd, including Professor Hafsat Ganduje, wife of the APC National Chairman; Dr. Mrs. Mary Alile, APC National Women Leader; Honourable Tunde Doherty, Chairman of all APC chairmen in Europe; and HRM Oba Aderounmu Bamidele Sadiq, Oba Yoruba in France, Ilufemiloye 1 of France, among others.
As the APC strengthens its international presence, the inauguration of the France Chapter signals a bold move to harness the diaspora’s potential—both as a political force and a driver of Nigeria’s global influence.
