The Director-General of The Progressive Institute, Dr Lanre Adebayo, has stated that there is currently no opposition party strong enough to defeat the All Progressives Congress and President Bola Tinubu in 2027.

The Progressive Institute is a policy and ideological centre established by the APC to train emerging young Nigerians in democratic principles and provide strategic direction for the ruling party.

Adebayo, a chieftain of APC, made this assertion while briefing the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Jibrin Barau, on Wednesday, on the party’s progress during a courtesy visit to the National Assembly, which he led.

He said, “2027 is very close. When you look at the Nigerian political environment now, I don’t think there is a party that can challenge the APC. But we must continue working very hard to ensure that the leadership God has given to us is maintained.

“We are doing this as part of the TPI national project to take stock of what we’ve achieved over the last two years. That is the only way the party will remain strong and resilient and serve as an example to others. We must work under our leaders, like Senator Jibrin, to ensure the APC leads and provides direction for the future.

“One of the key areas is ideology – to reshape the political environment in our country. We need to move away from mundanity and petty discussions on the media, such as people talking about sexual harassment. We should be focusing on governance and other serious issues that affect our people.”

While welcoming the delegation, Barau expressed satisfaction with the progress made by The Progressive Institute since its inception.

The Deputy Senate President also praised the National Chairman of the APC, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje, for introducing innovation and a winning mentality to the ruling party.

“First of all, let me welcome the DG and members of his team to the National Assembly, particularly to my office. I was among those who witnessed the unveiling of the Institute. I am also one of its admirers and supporters.

“I commend the National Chairman of our party for his foresight and innovative ideas. Wherever you find yourself, strive to be innovative because, without innovation, you cannot progress. You have done something that aligns with current global trends,” he said.