Abdullahi Ganduje, the All Progressives Congress (APC) national chairman, has assured that the party is committed to ensuring transparent leadership recruitment and inclusive public policy processes.

He gave the assurance on Friday in Abuja at the formal unveiling of The Progressive Institute, the party’s official resource centre and think tank, adding that the party is poised to enhance good governance systems.

Mr Ganduje said the presence of APC governors and dignitaries at the event underscored their commitment to build a strong political party.

He explained that the event concluded a thorough registration process that followed due process, unlike others.

“We believe in the rule of law and compliance with all relevant regulations, which are foundations for establishing a world-class institution.

“The Progressive Institute will serve as APC’s official policy think tank, undertaking research and advising the party on government policies.

“It will also provide a platform for discussions between the party, academic community, civil society, and media to promote inclusiveness and ownership,” he said.

Mr Ganduje said the institute aimed to enhance the party’s policy capacity, provide policy advice, and support governments elected on its platform.

He urged the public, including Nigeria’s development partners, to support the institute.

Also speaking at the event, Mathew Kukah appealed to President Bola Tinubu to reduce petroleum pump prices to alleviate Nigerians’ hardship.

He expressed concerns about the quality of democracy in Nigeria, emphasising the need to fix the problem for things to work.

The event was attended by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, represented by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.

Others in attendance were chairman of the Progressives Governors’ Forum and Imo Governor Hope Uzodinma, who delivered a lecture titled “Sustaining Progressive Ideology as a Bedrock of Democracy” at the event.

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo, ministers, members of civil society organisations, and APC stakeholders were also present.

(NAN)