The 8th historic National Convention of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) commences today (Friday) with about 8,453 delegates expected to gather at the beautifully rebranded Eagles Square, Abuja.
The two-day national exercise is expected to produce a new National Working Committee (NWC) of the party for a four-year term.
A visit to the venue of the event by our correspondent revealed that the popular Abuja Eagles Square has been given a facelift, branded with the party logo, pictures of its leaders, well-carpeted stages, surrounded by beautiful lightning and other aesthetics that underscore the essence and significance of the event.
Blueprint also noticed huge deployment of security in and around the venue.
Further checks also revealed that most popular hotels in the city centre and suburbs of the FCT have been fully booked, while hoteliers geometrically increased their lodging fees.
…Idris on event’s significance
Addressing a world press conference Thursday in Abuja, ahead of the major event, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said the convention will demonstrate the party’s unity, democratic maturity, and shared commitment to national development under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The minister described the convention as a significant milestone that will bring together delegates from across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory for leadership elections, policy engagement, and strategic direction-setting for the party’s next phase.
According to the information minister, “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.”
He said the convention, themed “Unity in Progress – Consolidating the Renewed Hope Agenda,” reflects 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.
The Niger-born image maker also said APC had, “since its birth, remained a platform for progressive ideals, national cohesion, and purposeful leadership, and its resilience across multiple electoral cycles underscores its strength as a leading political force in Nigeria.”
He emphasised that the party has consistently demonstrated its ability to manage leadership transitions in an orderly and structured manner, with strengthened internal systems that promote accountability, inclusiveness, and stakeholder participation.
“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 further said all necessary arrangements had been concluded to ensure a smooth, transparent, and credible convention, with committees finalising their assignments and operational frameworks put in place 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.
The minister expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for his enduring contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey and pivotal role in founding and growing the APC.
He commended Tiubu’s leadership in fostering inclusivity within the party and 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.
…Masari speaks further
While addressing the gathering, Chairman of the Central Working Committee and former Katsina state Governor Aminu Bello Masari, expressed confidence in the level of preparation by the various committees, assuring party members of a hitch-free convention.
He said the planning structures were fully in place to ensure seamless coordination and execution of all activities.
The former governor added that the party remains committed to upholding transparency, discipline, and internal democracy.
When asked about likely court order against the National Convention, Masari said: “We are not aware anybody has gone to court. We have not been served. I am sure you know we are responsible party. If we are served, we will take notice of that. Can you pay for something that you don’t have? You can only hold something that you have.”
Dignitaries at the press briefing were Minister of Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, Vice Chairman of the Central Committee, Pius Akinyelure, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, and Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, among other party faithful.