The Young Progressives Party (YPP) has officially selected Mrs. Anita Zugwai-Chukwu as its presidential candidate for the 2027 general election. Party leaders expressed confidence that she will offer Nigerians a credible alternative platform as the polls approach.
Endorsement and Acceptance
Zugwai-Chukwu emerged as the party's standard-bearer after consultations and endorsements from key party organs, including the National Executive Committee (NEC) and state chairmen from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). In her acceptance speech, she thanked the party leadership and members for their trust, pledging to uphold the party's ideals and work towards its growth and national expansion.
She commended NEC members and state chairmen for their dedication. Acknowledging the nation's challenges, she noted that Nigerians are seeking transparent, people-centered, and progressive leadership. Zugwai-Chukwu stated: "I must first express my sincere appreciation to the National Chairman. Thank you for your visionary leadership and steady guidance. To NEC members, thank you for your wisdom and confidence. To state chairmen, thank you for your grassroots mobilization and unwavering support. Your collective efforts have made this moment a reality. The YPP is strong because you are strong."
She added: "I am not unaware of the challenges before us as a nation and as a party. Nigerians are yearning for leadership that is transparent, people-centred, and progressive. As presidential candidate, my duty is clear. I will safeguard our party's vision, uphold our constitution, and work closely with the National Working Committee and stakeholders. My personal ambition takes second place to the stability and growth of the YPP. I pledge loyalty to the party, fidelity to our ideals, and commitment to unity across all states."
Party Chairman's Remarks
YPP National Chairman, Comrade Bishop Amakiri, reiterated the party's commitment to service and transformational leadership. He highlighted the party's history of producing credible candidates who win elections and remain accountable. Amakiri cited achievements in Anambra, Akwa Ibom, and Plateau, noting that YPP elected officials have stayed true to the principle of service.
Amakiri said: "There is nothing significantly different from what we have always brought to the table. We have consistently sponsored credible candidates who won elections and fulfilled responsibilities. For example, in Anambra South, we produced a senator who served diligently until his passing. We have remained committed to that trajectory. In Akwa Ibom and other places, our elected officials have remained faithful to service."
He emphasized the party's focus on nurturing a new generation of leaders driven by public service, not personal gain. Reflecting on the impact of the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, Amakiri described him as a political force whose contributions enhanced the party's visibility and relevance. He added: "It would be unfair to say Senator Ubah's passing did not affect the party. It certainly did. However, to suggest his death ended the party's fortunes would be incorrect. He was a team player who gave the party significant visibility. Much of what the party enjoys today stems from his electoral victory."
Amakiri stressed that the YPP remains a party to watch in 2027, with positive ideas, policies, and programs to move the country forward. The party is mobilizing like-minded Nigerians and has concluded processes to produce candidates for various elective positions.
