The All Progressives Congress (APC) has issued a clarion call to its spokespersons across Nigeria to proactively counter the growing spread of ethnic, religious, and misleading narratives as the nation prepares for the 2027 general elections.
Addressing Divisions and Misinformation
At a recent capacity-building seminar held for Zonal and State Publicity Secretaries, APC National Secretary Ajibola Basiru underscored the rising threat posed by the politicisation of ethnicity and religion. He lamented that divisions along these lines had deepened compared to previous decades, warning that such fissures were being exploited for political gain.
Basiru decried the proliferation of misinformation on social media, noting that images from conflict-ridden regions outside Nigeria were frequently misattributed to local events to sow confusion and discord. He called on party communicators to remain vigilant and confront these tactics head-on.
Promoting Reforms and Economic Achievements
Highlighting the achievements of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, Basiru pointed to major economic reforms, such as the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of exchange rates. He asserted these measures had spurred new investment, revitalized the oil sector, and enabled infrastructure development.
The APC scribe remarked that, despite criticism from some quarters, recent data reflect a stabilising Naira and a resurgence in oil production—now reportedly peaking at 1.7 million barrels per day. He urged stakeholders not to overlook praise from credible international bodies when it affirms Nigeria’s progress.
Federal Initiatives for National Growth
Minister of Solid Minerals Dele Alake echoed these sentiments, noting that fiscal reforms have enabled greater revenue flows not just to the federal government but to states and local governments as well. Alake argued that removing entrenched economic distortions, such as fuel subsidies and dual exchange rates, has provided sub-national entities with more resources to settle debts and invest in critical infrastructure.
He insisted that macroeconomic stability must come before improvements in day-to-day commodity prices can be fully felt. With increased funding for infrastructural development, he projected a rise in employment and productivity, leading to a stronger currency and gradual improvements in the cost of living.
Combatting the Weaponisation of Identity
Both Basiru and Alake called on the APC’s media teams to recognize and respond robustly to the deliberate weaponisation of ethnicity, religion, and fabricated narratives. They emphasised the importance of presenting factual, positive developments to the public as part of a broader effort to foster national unity and confidence in ongoing economic reforms.
Commendable 👏👏
Thank you.