APC Convention: Yilwatda, Basiru re-emerge as Party Elects New NWC

The All Progressives Congress held its 8th national convention on Friday night in Abuja, where the party returned Professor Nentawe Yilwatda as National Chairman and Senator Ajibola Basiru as National Secretary through a consensus process and voice vote, as part of efforts to prepare the party for future elections and strengthen its structure.

The convention, which took place at Eagle Square, brought together President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, governors, lawmakers, ministers, and thousands of party delegates. It began in the evening and concluded with the swearing-in of members of the National Working Committee who will lead the party for the next four years.

Most of the positions were filled through agreement among party stakeholders, while only a few roles, including Deputy National Chairman for the South and National Welfare Secretary, saw contests.

Alongside Yilwatda and Basiru, other officials emerged, including Ali Dalori as Deputy National Chairman for the North, Benjamin Nwoye for the South, Abdulkarim Kana as Deputy National Secretary, and Felix Morka as National Publicity Secretary.

The newly elected leadership is expected to guide the party’s affairs, expand its reach, and prepare for upcoming political contests, including the 2027 general elections. The leadership also aims to strengthen internal party systems and increase participation across all levels.

The event was held under tight security, with heavy presence of police and soldiers around the venue. Movement in parts of Abuja was restricted, and many journalists faced difficulty gaining access despite having accreditation. Some reporters were stopped at checkpoints and had to walk long distances to reach the venue, while others who gained entry later encountered resistance from party supporters.

Despite these challenges, the convention went on as planned, with party leaders addressing delegates on unity, growth, and governance. The gathering also reflected the party’s reliance on consensus in choosing its leaders, a method it believes helps reduce internal disputes.

In addition to the leadership selection, discussions at the event touched on governance, economic direction, and party expansion. Party officials noted progress in membership growth and political influence, with more governors joining the party in recent years.

At the end of the convention, the APC presented its new leadership team and reaffirmed its plans to remain active and competitive in national politics as preparations gradually begin for the next election cycle.