Nigerians looking up to PDP as beacon of hope — Makinde

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State says millions of Nigerians are looking to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for a way forward.

Speaking in Abuja on Thursday at the inauguration of the board of governors and the unveiling of the roadmap for the Peoples Democratic Institute (PDI), Makinde emphasized the PDP’s responsibility to provide real hope and direction for Nigeria.

The PDI, established in 2000 as the PDP’s research arm, is focused on promoting democratic values across Nigeria and Africa through education, training, capacity-building, and research programs.

Makinde stated that the PDP is committed to becoming a source of inspiration and solutions for Nigerians. “We will fix PDP, and then PDP will fix Nigeria, providing a foundation for real hope for the people of Nigeria,” he said.

“As we look ahead to 2027, it’s clear that the PDP must lead the way in offering this hope. Revitalizing the PDI is a significant step in that direction. Our country needs guidance, and Nigerians are turning to the PDP to provide an ideological anchor.”

Makinde expressed that the board’s inauguration brings the PDP closer to articulating a clear ideology. He also pledged his commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy through his work within the PDP.

Reflecting on his own journey, he added, “From 2019, I have benefited greatly from this party, winning two mandates back-to-back under its umbrella. The only promise I make is to uphold the values that have sustained me and ensure I don’t pollute the foundation that others have built.”

Former Senate President Bukola Saraki echoed Makinde’s call for unity, urging party members to focus on the party’s ideology rather than individual ambitions.

“We cannot pursue ambition if we don’t first have a strong party. Ideas must come before positions,” Saraki stated. “Let’s stop talking about who’s running for councillor, governor, or president. Instead, let’s define what the PDP stands for, and what it represents in policy and principle.”

With these renewed commitments, the PDP aims to establish itself as a party focused on sustainable democratic values and solutions that resonate with Nigerians.

Credit: The Cable