By Ndudirim Sylvia Iloka
The All Progressives Congress (APC) gathered in Abuja on March 27, 2026, for its 8th National Convention, drawing a large crowd of delegates and party leaders to Eagle Square in what appeared to be an early show of strength ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial elections.
More than 8,000 delegates attended, including persons with disabilities, as the party’s top hierarchy turned out in full. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was present, alongside Vice President Kashim Shettima and Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Governors, federal lawmakers, and other party figures were also in attendance. Nollywood actor Zack Orji was among notable faces seen at the venue.
The convention centred on the party’s Unity in Progress theme, with speakers linking it to the administration’s Renewed Hope agenda. Some participants who spoke pointed to areas where government policies had affected their lives, offering a mix of personal accounts and political messaging.
In his address, President Tinubu spoke briefly on electricity, acknowledging the country’s long-standing power issues and stating that efforts were ongoing to improve supply. He also took a moment to reflect on the party’s journey, referencing both present and past leadership, and led a minute of silence for former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Tinubu used the platform to push for greater involvement of women in politics, noting that leadership should not be limited by gender.
Party officials emerged largely through consensus, a process driven by key stakeholders including Akpabio and Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma. The exercise saw only a few new faces, with most of the existing officials retaining their positions.
The party’s National Chairman, Professor Yilwatda, closed proceedings with a vote of thanks, acknowledging the turnout and the role of party leaders in steering the process.
Security presence around Eagle Square was heavy, and there were no reports of disruptions. Some journalists, however, had difficulty accessing the venue despite accreditation.
By the end of the exercise, the message from the party was clear, a push for cohesion within its ranks and a steady build-up towards the next round of elections.
