North-West public hearing on the APC constitution amendment

It is with immense honour and a profound sense of responsibility that I welcome you all to Katsina State for this critical Zonal Public Hearing on the amendment of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Constitution.

As your host and as Chairman of the APC Governors’ Forum in the North-West, I extend my warmest fraternal greetings to each of you. Your presence here today is not merely a formality; it is a powerful affirmation of our collective commitment to strengthening the institutional foundations of our great party.

As we are all aware, our great Party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) is a party that emerged out of determination of some groups of politicians to bring about change in the country’s way of conducting governance and running our affairs generally. It was a product of the realization that for our country – Nigeria to move out of inertia and stagnation the only option is to tread on that tortuous path of history that all great nations traversed to construct and imbue enduring legacies in behavioral and attitudinal approaches and orientations, raising strong institutions, as the bulwarks of society and nurse that trust with the moral force to significantly mend our various fault-lines thus prepare Nigeria for attainment of true nationhood.

We gather at a pivotal moment in our nation’s political journey. The APC was founded on a vision of progressive governance, internal democracy, accountability, and service to the Nigerian people. Yet, like any living institution, our party must evolve to meet the demands of a changing political landscape, the aspirations of a dynamic electorate, and the imperatives of effective governance.

This Constitution Amendment process is not about personalities; it is about principles. It is not about short-term gains; it is about long-term sustainability. It is not about division; it is about renewal and unity.

The North-West, as the political and demographic heartland of our party, has a sacred duty to shape this process with wisdom, foresight, and integrity. We must ensure that the amended Constitution:

• Strengthens Internal Democracy by guaranteeing free, fair, and transparent primaries that reflect the will of the grassroots;
• Promotes Accountability and Transparency in party finances, decision-making, and leadership transitions;
• Enhances Inclusivity by ensuring equitable representation for women, youth, and persons with disabilities at all levels of party structure;
• Clarifies Roles and Responsibilities to prevent ambiguity, overlap, and conflict within our governance architecture; and
• Embeds a Culture of Discipline and Ethical Conduct that upholds the highest standards of public service.

Let us use this hearing not for grandstanding, but for constructive dialogue. Let us listen with open minds, speak with honesty, and deliberate with the future of our party and our nation in our hearts.

Your inputs today will be meticulously documented and forwarded to the National Constitution Amendment Committee. They will form the bedrock of the North-West’s official position, a position that must reflect our shared values and our unwavering commitment to a stronger, more resilient APC.

In closing, I reiterate my administration’s full support for this exercise. Let us leave here not only with resolutions, but with a renewed spirit of collaboration and a clear roadmap for a party that is truly fit to lead Nigeria into a new era of peace, prosperity, and progress.

Finally, I wish to express my sincere appreciation to all those who found time to witness this occasion despite numerous commitments. I pray for your safe journey back to your respective destinations.