The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, has challenged opposition leaders to move beyond criticism and present practical, workable solutions to Nigeria’s economic challenges instead of merely condemning government policies.
Professor Yilwatda made the call through Hon. Daniel Rejenieju at the 10th National Assembly Award Dinner Ceremony held on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at the House of Representatives Complex, National Assembly, Abuja.
According to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Information Strategy, Abimbola Tooki, the APC National Chairman noted that several opposition politicians also campaigned in 2023 on the promise of removing the fuel subsidy but failed to provide any realistic framework for cushioning the impact on Nigerians.
He maintained that the removal of the fuel subsidy was an inevitable and necessary step to prevent fiscal collapse, describing the former subsidy regime as an unsustainable system that benefited only a privileged few while depriving the nation of resources needed for critical development.
Professor Yilwatda urged Nigerians to continue supporting the bold economic reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressing confidence that the temporary hardships associated with the policies would ultimately translate into sustainable economic growth, fiscal stability and shared prosperity.
He stressed that true leadership is measured by the courage to make difficult but necessary decisions in the national interest, noting that President Tinubu has demonstrated the political will to implement reforms that previous administrations acknowledged but were unwilling to undertake.
While acknowledging the short-term challenges resulting from the reforms, the APC Chairman said they are necessary to correct long-standing structural distortions in the economy and lay the foundation for lasting national development.
Highlighting key achievements of the administration, he described the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) as one of the most impactful social intervention programmes under the Renewed Hope Agenda. He said the scheme has expanded access to higher education by enabling millions of students across the country to pursue their studies irrespective of ethnicity, religion or political affiliation.
He also stated that the reforms have encouraged greater fiscal discipline, promoted responsible financial planning and increased allocations to states, thereby improving their capacity to pay salaries, execute infrastructure projects and deliver essential services to citizens.
Professor Yilwatda appealed to Nigerians to remain patient, resilient and united in support of the Renewed Hope Agenda, emphasizing that meaningful national transformation requires sacrifice and collective commitment.
A major highlight of the evening was the recognition of two members of the Office of the APC National Chairman for their outstanding service.
Comrade Jubrin Bancir, Personal Private Secretary to the APC National Chairman, received the Most Outstanding Personal Private Secretary in Nigerian Politics Award in recognition of his professionalism, dedication, leadership and contributions to effective public service.
Also honoured was Caroline Omeashem, Secretary in the Office of the APC National Chairman, who received the Most Outstanding Award in Confidentiality and Professional Service for her exceptional discretion, diligence and administrative excellence. The organisers noted that her collaborative efforts with Comrade Bancir have significantly enhanced the efficiency and coordination of the Office of the National Chairman.
The awards underscored the importance of professionalism, integrity and dedication in strengthening public institutions and promoting effective democratic governance.
Earlier, the Convener of the awards, Hon. Uko Miracle, commended President Tinubu and the APC leadership for what he described as significant achievements since assuming office. He revealed that his organisation conducted a nationwide assessment of the administration’s performance through engagements with Ministries, Departments and Agencies, culminating in the publication of a comprehensive magazine documenting the President’s achievements.
Representing the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hajia Fatima Abbas also praised the organisers for recognising excellence in public service. She commended the Renewed Hope Agenda for its positive impact and applauded First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu for her commitment to women’s empowerment and support for small and medium-sized enterprises, describing women’s economic empowerment as essential to sustainable national development
