Professor Nentawe Yilwatda and Senator Ajibola Basiru have been returned as National Chairman and National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) following the party’s 8th elective national convention held in Abuja.
The convention, which took place on Friday, also saw the emergence of all members of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) through a consensus arrangement ratified by an affirmative voice vote. The newly sworn-in officials are expected to pilot the affairs of the ruling party for the next four years.
Among those returned or elected into key NWC positions are Deputy National Chairman (North), Ali Dalori; Deputy National Chairman (South), Emma Eneukwu; National Financial Secretary, Bashir Gumel; and National Legal Adviser, Murtala Kankia, among others.
In his acceptance speech, Yilwatda pledged to strengthen the party and support the administration of Bola Tinubu. He emphasized the need to build a more transparent, inclusive, and disciplined political structure.
“Our mission is to build a stronger, united party that reflects the aspirations of all Nigerians. We will deepen internal democracy, strengthen party structures, and expand our reach across communities,” he said, adding that youth empowerment would remain a priority.
The convention, held at the Eagle Square, attracted top party leaders including President Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and several APC governors, ministers, and lawmakers. Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas were also in attendance.
However, activities in the nation’s capital were significantly disrupted due to heavy security presence around the venue. Armed security personnel restricted movement on major roads leading to the Eagle Square, causing difficulties for residents and accredited journalists.
Several journalists reported being denied access despite having valid accreditation, while others alleged intimidation and threats from security operatives. Those who eventually gained entry also faced hostility from some party delegates.
Earlier in the day, the convention proceedings reflected a largely consensus-driven process, although a few positions, including Deputy National Chairman (South) and National Welfare Secretary, were contested.
Addressing delegates, former Katsina State Governor Aminu Bello Masari, who chaired the convention’s Central Coordinating Committee, described the gathering as a defining moment for the party and the country.
“This is not a routine exercise but a historic responsibility. You are here not just to vote, but to shape the future of our democracy,” Masari said.
Also speaking, Minister of Finance Wale Edun defended the economic reforms of the current administration, noting improvements in key macroeconomic indicators and growth projections. He highlighted ongoing efforts to boost agriculture, power supply, and industrial development through partnerships and policy reforms.
Despite the organizational success of the convention, concerns over the treatment of the media and the heavy-handed security measures cast a shadow over the exercise.
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