The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the United Kingdom, Honourable Tunde Doherty, has called on party members in Nigeria and across the diaspora to extend their full support to the newly confirmed minister, Dr. Bernard Doro.
The New Daily Prime earlier reported that the Senate had confirmed Dr. Doro’s nomination, and he is currently awaiting the allocation of his ministerial portfolio.
Speaking at a dinner held shortly after the Senate’s confirmation, Doherty described the appointment as a great honour for the APC United Kingdom Chapter, noting that it marked a proud moment for members in the diaspora.
“We are not going to bother you; instead, let us be the ones to be bothered, because we understand the enormity of the office,” Doherty said. “I beg you, my people, give him the opportunity to deliver for this country. Whenever he feels the need for our expertise, he knows how to reach out. At the same time, we must always be concerned about his welfare.”
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Reflecting on the journey to the appointment, Doherty commended those who had worked tirelessly to ensure the recognition of the APC Diaspora Chapter within the party structure.
“Since last week, when one of us from the United Kingdom Chapter was nominated, there have been arguments in some quarters about what the Diaspora Chapter represents and its relevance,” he noted. “But today, I will honour some special individuals who pioneered the opportunity we are celebrating. First, I wish to appreciate our National Chairman, with whom we are well pleased.”
Doherty said the appointment and confirmation of Dr. Doro as a minister demonstrated that the APC Diaspora Chapter comprises individuals of exceptional quality and competence. He added that the recognition reaffirmed that members of the Nigerian diaspora did not travel abroad to be a nuisance, but to learn, grow, and contribute positively towards building a better Nigeria.
Reiterating the diaspora APC’s unwavering support for Dr. Doro, Doherty assured him that members would continue to stand by him with prayers and encouragement.
“We are not going to bother you; rather, you can always count on us,” he said.
The APC UK Chairman also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for finding Dr. Doro worthy of appointment, describing him as a leader who values merit and competence above all else.
“We give it to our President, Bola Tinubu, a man who knows the road, who does not care about who you are, but about what you can offer,” Doherty stated. “Let us give him credit for upholding the vision of renewed hope that will take Nigeria to greater heights.”
He also expressed appreciation to past party leaders who recognised and strengthened the role of the diaspora in the APC’s constitution.
“I must mention His Excellency Abdullahi Adamu, former National Chairman of the APC, and His Excellency Abdullahi Ganduje. I also acknowledge Sir Festus , the immediate past National Deputy Secretary of the party — a great friend of the diaspora who fought for our cause and ensured we are constitutionally represented within the APC,” Doherty added.
The APC UK Chairman concluded by describing Dr. Doro’s appointment as a milestone that showcases the calibre of leadership emerging from the diaspora.
“Today, we have the privilege of seeing one of our own chosen out of many, from the brilliance in Plateau State to the excellence across Nigeria , and his credentials impressed everyone present at the chamber,” he said.
Doherty’s remarks underscored a shared sense of pride among APC members in the diaspora, who view Dr. Doro’s elevation as a reflection of their collective commitment to national development and global engagement.
