The All Progressives Congress (APC) is making moves to retain its current National Working Committee (NWC) members, including National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda, ahead of its upcoming national convention, as part of efforts to maintain stability and unity within the party.
Sources within the ruling party indicate that there is growing support among key stakeholders for the return of existing NWC members through a consensus arrangement. The move is aimed at avoiding internal conflicts and ensuring a smooth convention process as preparations intensify.
The APC is expected to hold its national convention as part of activities to reposition the party ahead of the 2027 general elections. Party leaders believe that retaining experienced officials will help sustain continuity and strengthen internal structures at a critical political period.
According to insiders, many current officeholders are seeking re-election into the NWC, with consultations ongoing among governors, party leaders, and stakeholders to secure broad support. The consensus approach being considered is designed to reduce competition and foster unity within the party ranks.
The strategy aligns with the party’s recent pattern of adopting consensus arrangements in internal elections, which leaders say has helped minimise disputes and litigation in the past. By encouraging agreement among stakeholders, the APC hopes to avoid divisions that could weaken its position ahead of future elections.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is also believed to favour continuity in the party’s leadership, particularly in key positions such as the national chairman and national secretary. Retaining familiar figures is seen as a way to consolidate ongoing reforms and maintain strategic direction within the party.
The planned convention is expected to bring together party delegates from across the country to formally elect or reaffirm members of the NWC. It will also serve as a platform to demonstrate party unity and readiness for upcoming electoral contests.
Political observers note that the APC’s decision to prioritise continuity reflects broader efforts to strengthen internal cohesion at a time when political activities are gradually intensifying nationwide. With the 2027 elections on the horizon, parties are increasingly focused on building strong organisational structures and managing internal dynamics.
While the consensus approach may help maintain peace within the party, analysts also point out that it could generate concerns among members who favour competitive internal elections. Balancing unity with internal democracy will likely remain a key issue as the convention approaches.
The APC, one of Nigeria’s major political parties, continues to position itself for future electoral success by consolidating its leadership and expanding its base across the country.
As preparations continue, all eyes will be on the outcome of the convention and how the party manages expectations among its members. The decision to retain current leaders could play a significant role in shaping the party’s strategy and performance in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections.
