Nigeria's ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is intensifying preparations for its national convention, now scheduled for March 26 to March 27, 2026, following recent adjustments to related timelines. The event will cap a series of successful nationwide congresses at ward, local government, state, and zonal levels, aimed at reinforcing party unity and strategic readiness for the 2027 general elections.
The convention follows ward congresses held on February 18, 2026, local government congresses on February 20, 2026, and subsequent state and zonal exercises. Recent party announcements confirm that the zonal congress is set for March 25, 2026. The APC has extended the purchase and submission of expression of interest and nomination forms for zonal congresses and the national convention to run from March 12 to March 23, 2026, as stated by National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka. This extension does not alter the core dates for the zonal congress or national convention.
Party sources and officials indicate a strong preference for a consensus arrangement in electing members of the National Working Committee (NWC), a method that has been successfully applied at lower levels to minimize friction, reduce costs, and promote inclusivity. Deputy National Organising Secretary Nze Duru confirmed this approach, noting it aligns with the APC's tradition of prioritizing harmony.
Under this framework, current National Chairman Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda and National Secretary Senator Ajibola Basiru both eligible for re-election are widely expected to be retained. Professor Yilwatda assumed the chairmanship in July 2025 following his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, replacing the previous holder amid health-related resignation. A distinguished engineer, academic, and former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Yilwatda has focused on party reconciliation, institutional strengthening including the recent inauguration of the Governing Council of The Progressive Institute and coordination of electoral efforts, such as the FCT Area Council elections.
Senator Basiru has provided consistent administrative leadership, ensuring operational stability and alignment with the administration's Renewed Hope agenda.
Abimbola Tooki, media aide to the National Chairman, affirmed the leadership's inclination toward consensus, highlighting ongoing consultations among governors and stakeholders to secure broad representation and continuity in key roles. Professor Yilwatda emphasized the strategic value of this method: "Our focus remains on unity, progress, and delivering on the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. A consensus-driven process will allow us to build on our achievements without unnecessary divisions, ensuring the party emerges stronger and more cohesive."
The APC has also constituted and is set to inaugurate its 73-member National Convention Central Coordination Committee, chaired by former Katsina State Governor Aminu Masari, to oversee logistics and ensure a peaceful, successful event.
As the ruling party positions itself for the 2027 polls with early moves including membership drives, defections from opposition figures, and endorsements for President Tinubu's potential re-election, the convention will ratify the NWC, address constitutional amendments, and outline strategic priorities. Analysts view the consensus approach as a deliberate effort to project stability and avoid internal distractions ahead of what promises to be a competitive electoral cycle.