APC Confirms Consensus Strategy for 2026 National Convention Leadership Selection
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially announced its intention to employ a consensus method for selecting national leaders during the party's upcoming convention, scheduled for Friday, March 27, and Saturday, March 28, 2026, in Abuja. This decision was disclosed by Mary Ikoku, the assistant secretary for media and publicity for the APC national convention 2026, during an interview on Channels Television on Wednesday, March 25, 2026.
Details on the Consensus Approach and Elective Positions
Ikoku emphasized that while the party is adopting consensus for the convention itself, the handling of elective positions during primaries remains undecided. She noted that these decisions may vary depending on local political dynamics, reflecting the nuanced nature of Nigerian politics. In her words, "APC, for this convention, I am aware and can say that the party is adopting consensus for this convention. As to whether they are adopting consensus for elective positions, I do not have an answer to that because politics is local." This suggests that the party is tailoring its strategies to specific regional contexts ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Screening of Aspirants for National Working Committee Roles
Ahead of the convention, the APC has initiated the screening process for aspirants vying for key positions within its National Working Committee (NWC). Notable contenders include Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, who is seeking the role of National Chairman, and Ajibola Basiru, an aspirant for National Secretary. Incumbent NWC members are also actively preparing to retain their positions, with figures such as National Youth Leader Dayo Israel, National Legal Adviser Abdulkarim Abubakar Kana, National Woman Leader Mary Alile Idele, Deputy National Chairman (North) Ali Bukar Dalori, and National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka among those in the race.
Political Context and Strategic Outlook for 2027 Elections
This leadership selection process occurs against the backdrop of preparations for the 2027 elections. Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, the national chairman of the APC, has previously expressed confidence in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's prospects for securing a second term. Yilwatda outlined strategic approaches at a recent APC Northwest Youth Mobilisation event in Abuja, aiming to bolster the party's position amid opposition challenges. The consensus method for the 2026 convention is seen as a move to foster unity and streamline decision-making within the party as it gears up for the electoral battles ahead.
