Ganduje inaugurates APC France chapter, drums support for Tinubu’s reforms
…Says diaspora voting must become reality
By Jabiru Hassan
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, inaugurated the party’s France Chapter in Paris over the weekend, calling on Nigerians in the diaspora to fully support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic reforms and his Renewed Hope Agenda.
At the well-attended gathering of APC members from across Europe, Ganduje described the diaspora community as a crucial part of Nigeria’s democratic journey, urging them to engage more deeply with the political process and back the administration’s policies.
“We appreciate you for carrying the banner of our party, expanding its membership, and supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly in light of the significant reforms he is implementing,” Ganduje stated. “There is now more funding for capital development, and both governors and local government chairmen can attest to this.”
Speaking through his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Edwin Olofu, Ganduje acknowledged that President Tinubu’s economic reforms, while challenging, were vital for repositioning Nigeria on a path to sustainable growth.
He also revealed that efforts were in progress to collaborate with the National Assembly to make diaspora voting a reality. “The party is committed to working with lawmakers to make the long-awaited goal of diaspora voting achievable, ensuring full political inclusion for Nigerians abroad,” Ganduje said.
The APC chairman also referred to a recent National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting where a vote of confidence was passed on President Tinubu, reinforcing the party’s endorsement of his leadership and reforms.
“He is a reformer and has brought about significant changes, particularly in the economic sector,” Ganduje added.
In his speech, Ganduje noted a noticeable trend of defections to the ruling party from various political groups.
“There is peace within the APC, unlike other parties that are grappling with internal crises. Thanks to this conducive environment, many are joining our party—Senators, House of Representatives members, State Assembly lawmakers, and other key political figures,” he said.
He emphasised that the APC fosters internal democracy and adheres to its constitution.
In her acceptance speech, the newly inaugurated Chairlady of the APC France Chapter, Hajiya Amina Musa Baba Suzuki, underlined the increasing importance of the diaspora as both an economic and political force. “The Nigerian diaspora contributes billions in remittances and investments, but we are also thought leaders and proud ambassadors of Nigeria’s democracy,” she said.
Suzuki called for greater support from the party’s leadership for diaspora chapters. “Our chapter and others like it serve as soft-power diplomats, advocates, and connectors. We act as crucial links between our people and the democratic processes at home,” she noted.
She concluded with a heartfelt appeal to the APC leadership: “Under your visionary leadership, we believe diaspora voting can become a reality. It is not only possible—it is necessary. We respectfully urge you to make this dream come true during the course of this administration. After all, where there is a will, there is always a way.”
The event was attended by several distinguished guests, including Ganduje’s wife, Prof. Hafsat Ganduje, APC National Women Leader, Dr Mary Alile, the Chairman of all APC chapters in Europe, Hon. Tunde Doherty, and numerous traditional and community leaders.
