Abuja Welcomes 32 Governors, 8,450 Delegates for APC Convention

APC Gears Up for National Convention Amidst Unity and Progress Theme

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is set to convene its National Convention in Abuja, a significant event expected to draw a large contingent of party leaders, delegates, and stakeholders. Scheduled for Friday and Saturday, the convention aims to consolidate the party’s agenda and usher in a new leadership team.

President Bola Tinubu is expected to be in attendance, alongside members of his cabinet. The convention will also host 32 state governors and a substantial 8,453 delegates drawn from every state and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). This gathering signifies a crucial moment for policy deliberation, leadership selection, and strategic planning for the party’s future.

Convention Theme: ‘Unity in Progress: Consolidating the Renewed Hope Agenda’

The overarching theme for this convention, ‘Unity in Progress: Consolidating the Renewed Hope Agenda,’ has been highlighted as a reflection of the party’s core identity, its past journey, and its forward-looking vision. This theme underscores the commitment to national development and the ongoing efforts to translate the administration’s guiding principles into tangible benefits for Nigerians.

According to the Co-Chairman of the Media sub-committee for the Convention and Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the convention serves multiple purposes. It is envisioned as a platform for policy engagement, leadership elections, and a formal transition to a new set of party executives. More than just a procedural event, it is also a moment for reflection, consolidation, and charting a clear direction for the party’s next phase.

Key figures present at a pre-convention media briefing included the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa; the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo; Pius Ayim, Vice Chairman of the Central Committee; Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Chief Sunday Dare; and Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga.

A Broad-Based Platform for Progress

Idris emphasized that the APC remains committed to being a broad-based political platform that welcomes diverse viewpoints while maintaining a unified purpose. This diversity is seen as a strength, rooted in a shared dedication to progress and national development.

All logistical and operational arrangements have been finalized to ensure a smooth, transparent, and credible convention. The iconic Eagle Square in Abuja has been designated as the venue. The various sub-committees established by the party have reportedly completed their assignments, ensuring coordinated efforts and efficient execution of the convention’s proceedings.

Addressing Concerns and Ensuring Order

The Chairman of the APC National Convention Central Coordinating Committee and former Katsina State Governor, Aminu Masari, addressed concerns regarding the party’s operational framework and the convention’s legality. He affirmed that the party operates in accordance with its established zoning arrangements and stated that there were no known legal challenges that would impede the convention’s proceedings.

Masari explained the party’s stance on zoning, emphasizing its adherence to federal character principles. He stated that candidates are expected to purchase nomination forms for offices zoned to their respective regions. Any attempt to circumvent these zoning arrangements is viewed as an effort to create confusion or undermine the party’s structure.

“We suspect that these kinds of people are interested, maybe as agents, to come and destroy our party, which we will not agree to. And I know Nigerians will not agree,” Masari remarked, underscoring the party’s resolve against disruptive actions. He also confirmed that the party had not been served with any court injunctions related to the convention.

Internal Grievances and Resolution Mechanisms

Despite assurances of a smooth process, some party members have raised concerns about their exclusion from electoral contests. Fubara Dagogo, a party chieftain, reportedly filed a complaint at the Federal High Court in Abuja, protesting his alleged exclusion from the South-South Zonal Congress. Paul Oyiborume has also voiced similar grievances.

However, Dagogo indicated his intention to pursue resolution through the party’s internal mechanisms before seeking external legal recourse. He expressed confidence in the party’s internal processes for conflict resolution and stated he would not seek an injunction to halt the convention.

Appeals Committee Ready for Challenges

The Taraba State Governor and Chairman of the All Progressives Congress National Convention Appeals Committee, Agbu Kefas, conveyed his confidence in the convention’s smooth execution. Speaking after a committee meeting, Kefas stated that they were prepared to handle any unforeseen developments, acknowledging that while no significant problems were anticipated, preparedness was essential.

“We are going to the convention, and you cannot completely rule out anything. But with what we have done so far, I think we will have a very hitch-free exercise,” Kefas commented, reflecting the committee’s readiness.

Government Directives Amidst Convention Preparations

In anticipation of the convention, the Federal Government has directed civil servants working within the Federal Secretariat in Abuja to work from home on Friday. This measure is due to the closure of access roads leading to and around the Federal Secretariat Complex, Phases I, II, and III, from Friday, March 27, to Saturday, March 28, 2026. The closure is a direct consequence of the Eagle Square being utilized for the APC’s national convention.

A circular issued by the Permanent Secretary, Service Welfare Office, for the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, mandated that all personnel whose offices are located within the affected areas should work remotely. Heads of ministries, departments, and agencies have been instructed to ensure strict compliance with this directive.

Preparations Underway and Economic Impact

As the convention draws near, Eagle Square is reportedly being decorated, with billboards welcoming delegates lining the roads leading to the venue. The influx of delegates and party faithful into the Federal Capital Territory has also led to a significant surge in patronage for hotels and guesthouses. Top hotels in Abuja have reported full bookings, and even budget accommodations have experienced high demand, with some delegates opting for accommodations outside the city center.