UPDATED: APC Convention: 8,453 delegates in Abuja as party assures security, readiness
…..Abuja wears new look for the convention The stage is set for the 8th National Convention of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) as 8,453 delegates from across Nigeria’s 36
.....Abuja wears new look for the convention
- From Jide Orintunsin & Vincent Ikuomola - Abuja
The stage is set for the 8th National Convention of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) as 8,453 delegates from across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) converge at Eagle Square, Abuja, to elect new party leaders.
Delegates are also expected from the diaspora to attend the two-day meeting.
The Co-Chairman of the Media sub-committee for the Convention and the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, disclosed the figure at the World Press Conference held at the Transcorp Hilton Abuja on Thursday.
The Minister described the convention as a significant milestone that will bring together delegates from across the country for leadership elections, policy engagement, and strategic direction-setting for the party’s next phase.
According to him, “The convention is not just a routine exercise, but a moment of reflection, consolidation, and planning. It represents our collective resolve to strengthen democratic values, deepen internal governance, and align party processes with national development priorities."
With the theme, “Unity in Progress - Consolidating the Renewed Hope Agenda,” Idris said the gathering will also reflect on the party’s core values of cohesion, continuity, and clarity of purpose, while reinforcing its alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's broader governance vision.
He noted that since its founding, APC has remained a platform for progressive ideals, national cohesion, and purposeful leadership. Its resilience across multiple electoral cycles underscores its strength as a leading political force in Nigeria.
“The APC continues to evolve as a broad-based political platform that accommodates diverse perspectives while maintaining unity of purpose. This diversity remains a key strength in advancing national development and democratic consolidation,” he stated.
Idris then disclosed that necessary arrangements have been concluded to ensure a smooth, transparent, and credible convention, with all the subcommittees finalising their assignments and operational frameworks to guarantee efficiency and coordination
He assured Nigerians and the international community that the convention will meet the highest standards of democratic practice, reflecting discipline, organisation, and respect for established norms.
“As the convention approaches, the APC reaffirms its unity and collective responsibility. This gathering will showcase our commitment to democratic ideals, organisational discipline, and inclusive decision-making,” he said.
Also speaking, the chairman of the Central Coordinating Committee and former Katsina State governor, Rt. Hon. Aminu Bello Masari expressed confidence in the level of preparation by the various committees, assuring party members of a hitch-free convention.
He noted that the planning structures were fully in place to ensure seamless coordination and execution of all activities.
The former Speaker of the House of Representatives dismissed allegations that the party denied interested members nomination forms to contest for any of the national offices.
The Minister of Information then expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for his enduring contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey and for his pivotal role in founding and growing the APC.
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He commended the President’s leadership in fostering inclusivity within the party and in steering the nation with visionary, progressive policies aimed at strengthening governance and national development.
“The APC remains committed to building a stronger, more united Nigeria, where governance is driven by accountability, inclusiveness, and a clear vision for progress,” Idris added.
Those in attendance were the Honourable Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa; the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo; Pius Ayim, Vice Chairman of the Central Committee; Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Chief Sunday Dare; Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga; and other top party dignitaries.
Meanwhile, workers were seen working round the clock for the facelift and decoration of Eagle Square, the convention venue, while most roads leading to the venue are decorated with billboards welcoming delegates to the convention.
Investigation by our correspondent also showed that most hotels within the city center and some suburbs of Guazape, Jabi, Gwarinpa, Apo, Kubwa, Asokoro, and Lugbe have been fully booked by state chapters of the party for their delegates.
Security agents were also visible at strategic areas of the FCT to ensure a hitch-free convention.
