Presidential hopeful of the Young Progressives Party (YPP), Arc. Dr. Peter Agada, has rejected political coalitions built only on the desire to win elections, saying Nigeria needs an ideological platform focused on economic development and inclusion.

Agada, a former Labour Party presidential aspirant, spoke ahead of the YPP’s substitution primary scheduled for August 21, 2026, where he is expected to emerge as the party’s candidate for the 2027 presidential election.

He said his decision to join the YPP was based on what he described as the party’s commitment to ideology, ideas and values.

According to him, he would not join a political party simply because it has a strong electoral structure or ballot line.

“Coalition for coalition’s sake does not solve Nigeria’s problems,” Agada said, insisting that any political alliance must have a clear programme for Nigerians.

He said a serious coalition must explain how it would tackle poverty, insecurity, unemployment, education, healthcare and economic production.

Agada also criticised Nigeria’s continued dependence on foreign borrowing, arguing that the country has enough human and natural resources to finance much of its development if corruption, waste and leakages are reduced.

He promised that his proposed administration would pursue what he called “lean governance” by reducing administrative costs and redirecting public funds towards production, education, healthcare and infrastructure.

The presidential hopeful also promoted his economic concept of “Ward Capitalism,” which he said would make the ward a major centre of economic development.

He explained that the policy would take enterprise support, infrastructure, investment and production closer to communities instead of concentrating development in Abuja and other major centres.

Agada said his political programme, known as LabourDirect, remains focused on the dignity of labour, economic inclusion, production and grassroots development.

He said his movement from the Labour Party to the YPP was not driven by personal ambition but by his search for a political platform that aligns with his ideology.

“I don’t want power simply because power is available,” he said, adding that he would continue building his political movement even if he does not win the 2027 presidential election.

Agada also said he plans to mobilise young people, professionals, women and grassroots supporters through The Movement Nigeria, describing the initiative as a long-term political movement beyond the 2027 election.

He said his ultimate goal was to build a Nigeria where citizens, regardless of their region or background, could participate fully in the economy.

“Ultimately, my politics comes down to one thing: Nigeria must work for Nigerians,” Agada said.