The National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Dr Kabiru Turaki, has urged National Ex-Officio members of the PDP to embrace sacrifice as an imperative in the collective effort to move Nigeria forward.

Dr Turaki stated this during an interactive meeting with the National Ex-Officio members, held on Wednesday, December 10, at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja .

At the occasion, which served as a forum for strategic engagement, leadership consolidation, and affirmation of commitment to the party's future, the National Chairman stressed that the current political and economic climate in Nigeria demands introspection, dedication, and selfless commitment from all leaders, especially those within the main opposition party.

“As a critical organ of our great Party, the burden of moving Nigeria forward is a collective one, and it requires every single member of this great party, particularly those in leadership positions like our Ex-Officio members, to look beyond personal interests,” Turaki said, adding that “We must make sacrifices of time and resources to put the needs of our party and, ultimately, the Nigerian people first.”

He emphasised that the PDP’s status as a credible alternative must be underpinned by internal cohesion and a visible commitment to democratic principles and the rule of law.

According to him, the Ex-Officio members, who serve as a vital link between the National Executive Committee (NEC) and the grassroots, must champion the culture of sacrifice within their various zones and states.

Speaking on behalf of the group, the Chairman of the National Ex-Officio Members, Chief Clement Faboyede (AKA, Fabo), emphasised that their presence was to dismiss any speculation regarding the legitimacy of the current leadership, which he said was duly elected at the recent Elective National Convention.

“Mr Chairman, you are Convention-approved, and your leadership is constitutional. We, the National Ex-Officio Members, are solidly behind you and the entire NWC,” Chief Clement affirmed.

“We have acknowledged the complexities surrounding the party, but we stand by the decision of the highest organs of the PDP and the voice of the delegates. We are ready to work tirelessly under your command to reconcile all interests and restore the party’s glory.”

The members pledged to return to their respective constituencies to galvanise support, assuring the NWC that the grassroots are fully mobilised and recognise the legitimacy of the Turaki-led administration.

The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment from both the NWC and the Ex-Officio members to prioritise the party unity, strengthen internal structures, and intensify grassroots mobilisation efforts ahead of future elections.

30 National Ex-Officio members were present at the meeting, alongside all members of the NWC in attendance.