Shettima confirms Fintiri as APC leader in Adamawa

Vice President Kashim Shettima on Monday, March 23, 2026, in Adamawa State declared Governor Ahmadu Fintiri as the leader of the All Progressives Congress in the state, following his recent move into the party, with the announcement made during a reception held in his honour in Yola.

The clarification came amid ongoing debate within party circles over who should lead the APC in Adamawa, especially after Fintiri’s defection raised questions about the position previously associated with National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.

Shettima stated that the sitting governor naturally assumes leadership of the party at the state level, citing similar arrangements in other states.

He pointed to Borno State, where Governor Babagana Zulum leads the party despite his own position as vice president, and Plateau State, where Governor Caleb Mutfwang holds party leadership in the state.

Speaking on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the event, Shettima welcomed Fintiri and his supporters into the APC, noting that the party and the federal government were pleased with his decision. He also referred to development projects in the state as part of the reception remarks.

At the event, APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda formally presented the party’s flag to Fintiri and encouraged him to strengthen the party’s presence in Adamawa. He also handed over the party’s symbol and urged the governor to attract more members from other political groups.

In his response, Fintiri assured party leaders that he would work towards expanding the APC’s base in the state. He also noted recent political moves, including efforts that led to the return of Senator Abdulazeez Nyako to the party, as part of wider plans to bring more stakeholders into the fold.

The event marked a new phase in the state’s political landscape as the APC seeks to strengthen its structure ahead of future elections.