2026 Convention: APC appoints high-powered committee, assures transparent process

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has inaugurated its National Central Coordinating Committee for the 2026 national convention, setting in motion preparations for what party leaders describe as a defining moment in its internal political calendar.

The inauguration ceremony, held on Tuesday at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja, was presided over by the APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, who said the move reflects the party’s commitment to internal democracy and organisational discipline.

Describing the forthcoming convention as more than a routine statutory event, Yilwatda said it would serve as an affirmation of the party’s democratic ethos and readiness for future political contests.

“A convention such as ours is not merely a gathering; it is an affirmation of our democratic ethos, a celebration of our internal democracy, and a clear demonstration to Nigerians that the APC remains the most organised, forward-looking and viable political platform in the country,” he said.

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The chairman pointed to what he described as recent electoral gains by the party in by-elections, citing performances in the Federal Capital Territory, Kano and Rivers states as evidence of sustained grassroots support.

According to him, the outcomes reinforced the party’s strength amid opposition criticism.

The newly inaugurated committee is chaired by former Katsina State Governor, Aminu Bello Masari, whom the party leadership commended for his experience and longstanding involvement in party administration.

Yilwatda charged members of the committee to deliver a transparent, inclusive and credible convention, assuring them of the full backing of the National Working Committee (NWC) and other party organs.

“You have been entrusted with the responsibility to plan and deliver a convention befitting a ruling party of the APC’s stature,” he said, formally declaring the 2026 convention process inaugurated.

Responding on behalf of the committee, Masari expressed appreciation to the party leadership and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the confidence reposed in them.

“We accept this responsibility with humility, a strong sense of duty and firm commitment to the ideals and aspirations of our great party,” he said.

Masari described the national convention as a critical moment for reflection, consolidation and renewal within the party.

He pledged that the committee would operate with fairness, transparency and strict adherence to the APC constitution and guidelines.

He said the committee would coordinate all activities leading to what he described as a peaceful and credible convention, adding that it would work closely with the NWC and other relevant organs to ensure inclusiveness and discipline throughout the process.

Other prominent members of the committee include former Senate President Anyim Pius Anyim as Vice Chairman; Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq; Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma; former Borno State Governor Mai Mala Buni, who will serve as Secretary; and elder statesman Bisi Akande, a former interim national chairman of the party.

Masari assured party members that the committee would consult widely and prioritise the collective interest of the APC above personal ambitions, noting that a successful convention would strengthen internal cohesion and enhance public confidence in the ruling party.

The inauguration formally marks the commencement of preparations for the APC’s 2026 national convention.