The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) may unveil its new National Chairman on Thursday, July 24, as the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meets in Abuja to address critical leadership and structural matters, The PUNCH has learnt.

This follows the June resignation of former Kano State Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, who cited health concerns. However, political insiders widely interpret Ganduje’s exit as the result of deepening internal realignments and power tussles ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Following his departure, Deputy National Chairman (North), Ali Dalori, was appointed acting chairman. Now, sources within the party say the upcoming NEC meeting could confirm a substantive replacement or extend Dalori’s interim leadership pending a formal Elective Convention.

Top contenders reportedly include former Nasarawa State Governor, Senator Tanko Al-Makura, and Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, both from the North Central region, which is pushing to reclaim the chairmanship.

Tinubu’s Nod Awaited

Multiple sources at the APC National Secretariat confirmed that key decisions, including who ultimately emerges as national chairman, would depend on the final word from President Bola Tinubu, who leads the party.

“Discussions have been held with the President. Everyone is awaiting his directive,” one insider told The PUNCH. “Al-Makura, Yilwatda, and Dalori are all under consideration, but Tinubu’s decision will likely shape the NEC outcome.”

President Tinubu, who has attended the past two NEC meetings, is expected to be present at Thursday’s session. Sources said he held a closed-door meeting with party leaders at the Presidential Villa on Monday, with the chairmanship top of the agenda.

What’s on the NEC Agenda?

The NEC meeting, announced by Deputy National Secretary Festus Fuanter on June 30, is set to take place at the APC national headquarters in Abuja. Aside from the leadership question, party officials say the NEC will address a wide range of issues, including:

• Adoption of a new National Chairman or continuation of acting leadership
• Updates from the Constitution Review Committee
• Electronic registration (E-registration) of party members
• Upcoming by-elections and national congress plans

According to APC Deputy Organising Secretary, Eze Duru, Thursday’s session is routine but pivotal.

“We would address issues around the E-registration to enable members register wherever they are, and receive reports from the directorates of the party through the National Secretary. Also, the issue of the substantive National Chairman is expected to be on the agenda,” Duru said in an interview.

The E-registration, he noted, is part of efforts to reposition the APC digitally and expand its reach among prospective members across Nigeria.

Constitutional Backing

The APC’s amended 2022 Constitution empowers the NEC to appoint a new chairman and set up a caretaker committee if needed. Article 13.3(B) specifically allows the NEC to act in the party’s “overriding interest,” especially when a compelling situation arises.

With influential blocs within the party lobbying hard, and Tinubu expected to play a decisive role, all eyes are now on Thursday’s meeting to determine the direction of the APC’s national leadership as it positions for the next electoral cycle.

Attempts to reach APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, for comment were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.