APC Considers Rotating Key NWC Positions to Accommodate New Political Realities

The All Progressives Congress (APC) is considering adjustments to the distribution of key positions within its National Working Committee (NWC) as part of ongoing efforts to broaden representation across the six geopolitical zones and reflect recent political developments within the party.

The proposed realignment would affect several NWC offices, although the positions of National Chairman and Vice Chairman are expected to remain unchanged. The idea behind the move is to promote balance within the party’s leadership structure and accommodate interests emerging from states where new political actors have joined the APC.

Discussions around the zoning structure are still ongoing, with final decisions likely to be influenced by consultations at the highest level of the party’s leadership. Party insiders indicate that considerations around national political appointments and future electoral permutations are also shaping the conversation on how leadership roles should be distributed between the North and the South, including at sub-regional levels.

There are indications that possible shifts in key national roles, such as the presidential running mate and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), are being factored into the broader calculation of political balance within the party. As a result, the NWC’s zoning arrangement is being reviewed to ensure alignment with these wider considerations.

Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda of Plateau State, who emerged as National Chairman following a National Executive Committee (NEC) decision in July 2025, currently represents the North Central zone in that position. His emergence restored the chairmanship to the region after it had previously been occupied by Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje from the North West between 2023 and 2025. Meanwhile, some stakeholder groups within the party have called for the retention of the 2022 zoning formula ahead of the party’s March 2026 national convention, arguing that continuity could strengthen unity and internal stability.

In a related development, the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF), chaired by Imo State Governor Senator Hope Uzodimma, has expressed support for the party’s timetable and framework for the upcoming ward, local government, state, zonal congresses, and the national convention. The position was reached after a high-level meeting involving governors and members of the APC national leadership in Abuja.

In a communiqué issued after the meeting, the governors reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening internal democracy, promoting transparency, and ensuring inclusive participation across all levels of the party structure. They also stressed the importance of coordinated and accountable financial management during the congresses and convention processes, including in states where the APC does not currently control the government.

The forum further outlined plans for strategic engagements and visits to states to reinforce grassroots party structures. Taraba State, which recently witnessed significant political realignment, is expected to be among the first stops, with similar engagements planned in other areas.

Additionally, there are indications that discussions are taking place within party circles regarding aspects of presidential ticket considerations and information management at the federal level. However, no official statements have been made on the scope or outcome of such discussions.