Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has reaffirmed his commitment to revitalizing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), asserting that fixing the party is key to addressing Nigeria’s broader challenges. Makinde made this statement on Thursday in Abuja during the inauguration of the Board of Governors and the unveiling of the Roadmap for the Peoples Democratic Institute (PDI).
The PDI, established in 2000, is the PDP’s research arm, designed to foster a new democratic culture in Nigeria and Africa. The institute focuses on providing value-added education, training, research, and capacity-building programs. According to Makinde, the successful revitalization of the party would lay the foundation for meaningful national progress.
Speaking at the event, Makinde emphasized that the PDP’s revitalization is integral to providing hope for Nigeria’s future. “We will fix PDP and then PDP will fix Nigeria, which will be the basis of real hope for the people of Nigeria,” he stated confidently. The governor expressed optimism that the party’s efforts would translate into tangible improvements for Nigerians in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.
He highlighted the importance of providing ideological clarity and direction as the country approaches the next electoral cycle. “As we approach 2027, it is clear that the PDP has to provide real hope for Nigeria. By revitalizing the PDI, that real hope is being provided for our people,” Makinde said.
Makinde also stressed the need for Nigeria to have clear leadership direction. “Our country needs direction. Nigerians are looking up to the PDP to provide an ideological foundation,” he declared, emphasizing the party’s role in offering the vision necessary for national progress.
The governor pointed out that the inauguration of the new board for the PDI marked a significant step forward in defining the party’s ideology and values. This, he believes, would help establish a stronger and more unified PDP ready to face the challenges of governance. “With the inauguration of the board, we are moving closer to defining the ideology we stand for,” he added.
In his speech, Makinde urged politicians and leaders to reflect on their legacies and what they hoped to be remembered for. “Leaders who are given the opportunity to serve must always ask themselves what they want to be remembered for,” he advised, reinforcing the importance of service to the people and the country.
Reiterating his commitment to strengthening both the country’s democracy and the PDP, Makinde concluded with a call for unity and purposeful action. He stressed that Nigeria’s future depends on the collective efforts of those who genuinely desire to contribute to the nation’s progress, stating that the PDP must rise to the occasion.
