The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has launched a concerted effort to strengthen internal unity and position itself as a credible alternative ahead of the 2027 general elections.

On Tuesday, new National Chairman Tanimu Turaki (SAN) convened a strategic meeting in Abuja, bringing together the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), the Former Governors’ Forum, and the Forum of Former Ministers.

Chairman Turaki said the inclusion of the party’s elders was intentional, highlighting their legacies during the PDP’s 16 years in power.

“When you talk of the 16 glorious years of the PDP, you are talking about the remarkable projects and legacies delivered by our former governors and the phenomenal work of our former ministers,” Turaki said.

He stressed that the new leadership seeks guidance on what previously earned the PDP public trust.

“We want to learn what distinguished PDP’s leadership, what earned Nigerians’ confidence, and what made PDP a household name. We are ready to receive advice, guidance, and even directives,” Turaki added.

Acknowledging past shortcomings, Turaki pledged to correct mistakes through transparency and internal justice, declaring: “This is a new PDP.”

Dr. Babangida Aliyu, Chairman of the Former Governors’ Forum, emphasized that the party’s path back to power must be rooted in humility and respect for the people. He noted that public dissatisfaction under the current administration offers a clear political opportunity.

“Since 2015, Nigerians have been unhappy. They are angry. It is our responsibility to ensure that by 2027 we provide succour, hope, and direction to this country,” Aliyu said, urging unity and discipline.

Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau, speaking on behalf of the former ministers, commended Turaki for exceeding expectations in his first weeks, particularly his efforts to reclaim the party headquarters after the National Elective Convention held on November 15–16 in Ibadan.

“When we inaugurated the newly elected officers at our national headquarters, we defied tear gas and threats by uniformed men sent by the devils… Chairman, congratulations,” Shekarau said, assuring the NWC of the full support of the former ministers. He added that Nigerians now “openly yearn for” the PDP’s previous governance due to experiences under other administrations.