APC Convention: Basiru Cleared, Promises Stronger Party Structure

APC Convention: Basiru Cleared, Promises Stronger Party Structure

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja 

Ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Convention scheduled for March 27–28, the party’s National Secretary, Ajibola Basiru, has been cleared by the screening committee, reaffirming his commitment to deepen internal reforms and strengthen the party’s structures nationwide.

Basiru was screened on Tuesday in Abuja by the party’s National Convention Aspirants’ Screening Committee led by Biodun Oyebanji, as preparations intensify for the convention expected to hold at Eagle Square.

Speaking after the exercise, Basiru described the process as smooth and commended the panel for recognising the progress made under his leadership since assuming office in August 2023.

“It was okay. The committee acknowledged what we have been doing since we assumed office and charged us to continue working towards growing the party, ensuring cohesion, fairness, and justice for all members,” he said.

Highlighting achievements recorded during his tenure, the APC scribe said the party has significantly expanded its membership base through a structured registration system.

“We have grown the party’s database to about 12 million members,” he stated, describing the figure as evidence of the party’s growing grassroots strength.

He also pointed to administrative improvements within the party’s national secretariat, noting that reforms have enhanced efficiency and strengthened internal processes, including the conduct of primaries.

“We have been able to establish a functional and effective secretariat with an efficient bureaucracy capable of enhancing the party’s capacity. In terms of processes, including the conduct of primaries, we have introduced a level of competence that ensures seamless operations,” Basiru added.

Looking ahead, he said the forthcoming convention would mark a new phase in the party’s evolution, with a focus on revitalising its structures from the grassroots to the national level.

“One of the key tasks before us is to activate all party structures from the polling units up to the national level. In particular, the National Advisory Council must be fully activated after the convention,” he said.

Basiru expressed confidence in the party’s prospects, noting that a stronger internal framework would position the APC favourably ahead of future elections.

He also assured party members of a peaceful and successful convention, describing it as one of the most significant gatherings in the party’s history.

“We believe the convention will be peaceful and one of the most colourful and eventful gatherings of any political party in Nigeria,” he said.

The convention is expected to bring together party leaders, delegates, and stakeholders from across the country as the ruling party sets its agenda for the next political cycle.