The All Progressives Congress (APC) is reportedly preparing to retain Prof Nentawe Yilwatda as National Chairman and Dr Ajibola Basiru as National Secretary at its upcoming national convention.
Party sources indicate that a consensus approach is being embraced to strengthen unity and reduce internal disputes ahead of the March 27–28 gathering.
Approximately 20 current members of the National Working Committee (NWC) are seeking re-election, engaging governors and party stakeholders to secure backing.
According to APC’s Deputy National Organising Secretary, Nze Duru, the adoption of a consensus model will streamline elections and ensure a peaceful convention.
The party has concluded most ward and local government congresses nationwide, with a few postponed exercises pending completion.
The Convention Planning Committee, chaired by former Katsina State Governor Aminu Masari, will oversee the election of NWC members.
In line with Article 17 of the APC Constitution (March 2022, as amended), officers serve a four-year term and may be re-elected once.
A party insider revealed that President Bola Tinubu supports the retention of Yilwatda and Basiru, signaling continuity at the leadership level.
Earlier concerns about Basiru’s Southwest origin have eased, with leaders agreeing that his continued tenure supports party cohesion.
Duru emphasized the merit of retaining both officers, stating: “These individuals are best suited to their roles, and consensus ensures minimal friction at all levels of the party.”
Ahead of the convention, APC scheduled the inauguration of the 2026 National Convention Central Coordination Committee for February 25, 2026, at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja.
Masari will serve as chairman, with former Senate President Pius Anyim as Vice Chairman I, and Governors AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and Hope Uzodimma as Vice Chairman II and Treasurer, respectively.
Meanwhile, the APC National Chairman inaugurated The Progressive Institute, a policy and leadership training foundation, highlighting President Tinubu’s vision for a world-class political institution.
The institute will focus on leadership development, election-related capacity building, and serving as APC’s institutional memory.
