The All Progressives Congress (APC) recently wrapped up its 8th National Convention in Abuja, bringing together top party leaders, government officials, and thousands of delegates.
The convention, held at Eagle Square, brought together top party figures, including President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, governors elected on the APC platform, members of the National Assembly, and more than 8,000 delegates from across the country.
At the end of the exercise, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda was returned as the party’s National Chairman, while Surajudeen Basiru emerged as National Secretary. Other key members of the National Working Committee (NWC) include Felix Morka as National Publicity Secretary and Dayo Israel, who retained his position as National Youth Leader.
The party adopted a consensus approach in selecting its leadership, a move widely interpreted by stakeholders as a strategy to maintain internal cohesion and avoid divisive contests within its ranks.
In his acceptance remarks, Yilwatda described his re-election as a renewed call to service, pledging to strengthen party structures and ensure effective coordination ahead of future electoral contests.
President Bola Tinubu, in his address to delegates, acknowledged the economic and social challenges facing the country but insisted that ongoing reforms are beginning to yield results. He pointed to improvements in investor confidence and renewed interest in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector as signs of progress.
The President also referenced Nigeria’s recent exit from the global financial “grey list” and an oversubscription of the country’s Eurobond issuance as indicators of growing international confidence in the economy.
On the issue of power supply, Tinubu admitted that electricity remains a major concern for Nigerians but assured that targeted policies, including structural reforms in the power sector, are being implemented to address the situation. He added that improved electricity supply would play a critical role in driving industrial growth.
“We knew that rebuilding the country would require difficult decisions,” the President said. “But those steps are necessary to put Nigeria on a path of sustainable growth.”
Other party leaders at the event echoed similar sentiments. Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, Hope Uzodimma, described the administration’s policies as “difficult but necessary,” noting that they are laying the groundwork for long-term economic stability.
Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, also highlighted signs of economic recovery, stating that growth has strengthened in recent months, while confidence among investors continues to improve.
Meanwhile, Chairman of the Convention Planning Committee, Bello Masari, expressed confidence in the APC’s political strength, describing the party as well-positioned to compete in future elections. He emphasized that governance challenges should be addressed at the appropriate levels, urging greater accountability across local, state, and federal institutions.
The convention is widely seen as a significant moment for the ruling party, not only in reaffirming its leadership but also in projecting unity and readiness as political activities gradually build toward the next election cycle.
