APC Convention Opens in Abuja as Tinubu Leads High-Level Delegation
Tinubu Arrives APC National Convention as Party Moves to Elect New Leadership
APC Convention Opens in Abuja as Tinubu Leads High-Level Delegation
Abuja, Nigeria — The 2026 National Convention of the All Progressives Congress (APC) formally commenced at the Eagle Square, Abuja, with the arrival of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, signalling the start of a crucial gathering expected to reshape the party’s leadership structure ahead of the 2027 elections.
President Tinubu arrived at the venue at approximately 8:10 p.m., behind the scheduled time, joining other top party leaders who had earlier taken their seats. Among those already present were Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas.
Proceedings began earlier in the day with opening prayers led by APC National Youth Leader, Dayo Israel, alongside former Senate President Ahmed Lawan, reflecting both Christian and Muslim observances.
The convention, themed “Unity in Progress: Consolidating the Renewed Hope Agenda,” marks the party’s fourth elective national convention since its formation in 2013.
Key highlights of the event include the election of new National Working Committee (NWC) members, including the National Chairman, Deputy National Chairmen (North and South), National Secretary, and other principal officers. The exercise is being conducted in line with provisions of the Electoral Act and guidelines issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which mandate periodic party conventions and internal elections.
Delegates from across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory began arriving at the venue from early morning, while governors, lawmakers, and other party stakeholders joined later in the day.
The convention is also expected to feature goodwill messages from labour unions, youth and women groups, persons with disabilities, and market associations, underscoring the party’s effort to project inclusiveness.
President Tinubu is scheduled to deliver a presidential address, after which core activities—including the dissolution of existing party structures, election proceedings, and voting—will commence.
Officials of the National Convention Planning Committee, led by Governor Aminu Bello Masari (Chairman) and Governor Mai Mala Buni (Secretary), are expected to outline procedures guiding the exercise. Meanwhile, the Election Subcommittee Chairman and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, will brief delegates on the electoral process.
The convention is projected to run late into the night, culminating in the announcement of results and the emergence of new party leadership, as the ruling party positions itself to strengthen internal cohesion and consolidate its political base ahead of the 2027 general elections.