APC Affirms Continuity: Existing Zoning Formula Locked In for 2026 NWC Positions Ahead of Crucial Nat’l Convention

By Emmanuel Kwada

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has put an end to speculation over its leadership structure, officially confirming that the current zoning arrangement for National Working Committee (NWC) positions will remain unchanged for the party’s highly anticipated 2026 National Convention.

In a strongly worded press statement issued today from the APC national headquarters in Abuja, National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka emphasized that the zoning formula already detailed in the published 2026 Schedule of Nationwide Congresses, National Convention, and Related Activities remains fully valid and binding.

“The existing zoning arrangement for National Working Committee positions across states within the geo-political zones remains valid and applicable to the upcoming National Convention,” the statement declared.

This decision provides much-needed clarity for party members and aspirants as the APC gears up for its internal elections, which are seen as critical for consolidating the party’s strength ahead of future political engagements.

The move aims to promote stability, fairness, and inclusivity within the ranks, preventing potential disputes over power-sharing among Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.

Aspirants vying for national offices have been explicitly directed to comply with the established zoning guidelines when obtaining and submitting their Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms.

The statement stressed: “Accordingly, aspirants are advised to be STRICTLY GUIDED by the existing zoning arrangement.”

The affirmation comes amid earlier discussions and calls from various party stakeholders including support groups and governors for retaining the zoning formula that produced the current NWC following the 2022 convention.

Key positions under the arrangement include the National Chairman zoned to the North-Central and the National Secretary to the South-West, among others distributed across zones to ensure balanced representation.

By upholding the status quo, the APC leadership appears intent on avoiding the internal tensions and lobbying that have occasionally marked zoning debates in the past.

The decision is expected to streamline the nomination process and foster unity as the party prepares for the convention, scheduled as part of the broader congress activities timeline.

Party insiders view this as a strategic step to maintain cohesion and focus on governance deliverables while reinforcing the APC’s position as Nigeria’s dominant political force.

The full statement from the National Publicity Secretary serves as a clear directive to all stakeholders: adherence to the zoning formula is non-negotiable for a smooth and credible convention process.