The All Progressives Congress (APC) has elected a new set of national officers following the successful conclusion of its 2026 National Convention held in Abuja, signaling a strategic realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The convention, which took place at the iconic Eagle Square, brought together party leaders, delegates, governors, lawmakers, and stakeholders from across the federation. The exercise was largely conducted through a consensus arrangement, reflecting internal negotiations aimed at preserving party unity.
At the centre of the new leadership structure is Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, who emerged as the National Chairman. His emergence is widely seen as a move to inject technocratic leadership and reposition the party for future electoral contests.
He will be supported by Ali Bukar Dalori (Deputy National Chairman, North) and Benjamin Obi Nwoye (Deputy National Chairman, South), ensuring regional balance within the party’s top hierarchy.
In the administrative wing, Barr. Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru was elected as National Secretary, a critical role responsible for coordinating party activities nationwide. He will work alongside AbdulKarim Abubakar Kana, who serves as his deputy.
Other key appointments include Murtala Aliyu Kankia as National Legal Adviser, Uguru Mathew Ofoke as National Treasurer, and Muhammad Sulaiman Argungu as National Organising Secretary. These positions are considered pivotal to the party’s internal governance, financial management, and grassroots mobilization.
In the area of communication and public engagement, Felix Morka retained his influence as the party’s spokesman, with Meseko Durosinmi Josiah supporting media and public affairs operations.
The convention also emphasized inclusion and youth participation. Mary A. Idele was elected as National Women Leader, while Dayo Israel will spearhead youth mobilization efforts. Additionally, Durotolu Oyebode Bankole was selected to represent persons with disabilities within the party structure.
Party insiders described the outcome as a “carefully balanced arrangement” designed to maintain cohesion across geopolitical zones while positioning the APC as a formidable force ahead of the next electoral cycle.
Speaking after the convention, several party leaders reiterated their commitment to internal democracy, party discipline, and effective governance. They emphasized that the newly constituted National Working Committee (NWC) would focus on strengthening party structures, expanding membership, and consolidating electoral gains nationwide.
Political analysts note that the emergence of the new leadership comes at a critical time when the APC is expected to navigate governance challenges, opposition pressures, and increasing public expectations.
With the 2027 general elections on the horizon, the newly elected officials are now tasked with not only stabilizing the party internally but also crafting strategies that will secure electoral victories across the country.
The APC convention marks a significant turning point, as the ruling party seeks to reinforce its dominance in Nigeria’s political landscape while preparing for what is expected to be a highly competitive electoral season.
