Nigeria’s political stage lit up last weekend as the nation’s two leading political parties — the ruling All Progressives Congress () and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party () — have concluded their national conventions that set the stage for the country’s 2027 general elections.
At the heart of Abuja’s political spotlight last weekend were the respective national working committees (NWCs) elected by over 10,000 delegates and party leaders — decisions that could shape Nigeria’s electoral dynamics over the next year.
From March 27 to 28, Nigeria’s ruling party, the All Progressives Congress, held its 8th National Convention at Eagle Square, Abuja, drawing over 8,000 delegates and top dignitaries, including President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima.
Yilwatda, Basiru Return
Nentawe Yilwatda was returned as National Chairman of the party, with Surajudeen Basiru named National Secretary, and other key officers ratified through a consensus arrangement during the convention proceedings.
In his acceptance remarks, Yilwatda pledged unity and service.
“We are ready to serve, ready to lead, and we are ready to build the party, together with the nation, with you,” he said, assuring delegates the new leadership would not “fail, falter” in its responsibilities.
President Tinubu, addressing the gathering, underscored the government’s reform efforts and expressed confidence in the nation’s direction.
He stated that investor confidence was improving and pointed to reforms that have helped Nigeria regain financial credibility and attract foreign investment, particularly in critical sectors like oil and gas.
Wike-Backed PDP Retains Mohammed, Anyanwu
Just a day later, on March 29, the opposition PDP held its own national convention at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, where new leadership was elected by more than 2,000 delegates representing the 36 states.
At the centre of the new leadership are Abdulrahman Mohammed, elected National Chairman, and Samuel Anyanwu, elected National Secretary — both backed by Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike.
Mohammed, speaking at the convention, emphasised unity and renewal within the party.
“Today, we choose a higher path. We choose inclusiveness over exclusion, unity over division, we choose renewal over decline,” he said.
Wike assured delegates that the PDP would be present on the ballot in the 2027 elections and encouraged members to embrace a forward‑looking approach after a period of internal dispute and legal challenges.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recognised the newly elected PDP leadership, lending official credibility to the process after weeks of factional contention.
As the nation gears up for a crucial election year, with leadership structures now in place, the parties that have dominated Nigerian politics for decades are expected to mobilise, build consensus, and refine strategies ahead of national campaigns.