The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has announced that no fewer than 8,453 delegates are expected to participate in the forthcoming National Convention of the All Progressives Congress (APC), underscoring the party’s nationwide reach and organisational capacity.
Idris disclosed this on Thursday during a press conference in Abuja, where he provided updates on preparations for the high-profile political gathering. According to him, the delegates will be drawn from across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, reflecting what he described as the inclusiveness and unity of the ruling party.
“We are expecting a total of 8,453 delegates from across the country. This clearly demonstrates the national spread, inclusiveness, and organisational strength of our great party,” the minister stated.
He noted that the convention is not only a routine party activity but also a significant platform to showcase the APC’s democratic credentials and internal cohesion. Idris added that the event would further reinforce the party’s commitment to advancing national development under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The minister assured stakeholders and party members that comprehensive arrangements have been put in place to ensure the smooth participation of all accredited delegates. He emphasised that the party leadership had taken deliberate steps to avoid logistical challenges that could hinder attendance or disrupt proceedings.
“I want to assure you that nobody will be left out. The party is very responsible, and our budget has a self-adjusting mechanism to accommodate all delegates,” he said while responding to questions from journalists.
Idris also provided insights into the movement of delegates and members of various convention committees, stating that travel arrangements from different parts of the country have so far been seamless. He noted that there had been no recorded incidents affecting participants, attributing the smooth process to improvements in national security and infrastructure.
“As we speak, we have not recorded any incidents, and we do not expect any. This reflects the improving security situation and ongoing infrastructure development across the country,” he added.
The APC National Convention is expected to attract significant attention from political stakeholders, observers, and members of the public, as it serves as a key platform for decision-making within the party. Conventions typically involve the election or ratification of party officials, policy discussions, and strategic planning ahead of future elections.
Observers note that the scale of participation announced by the minister signals the importance the party attaches to the event, particularly as Nigeria gradually moves toward the next general election cycle. The convention is also expected to provide an opportunity for the party to consolidate its structures and address internal dynamics.
In addition to logistical preparations, the minister revealed that a fully equipped media centre would be established at the convention venue to facilitate real-time information dissemination. He said the centre would serve as a hub for journalists covering the event, ensuring that accurate and timely updates reach the public.
“There will be a media centre to ensure that Nigerians are adequately informed. We are inviting all media organisations, and accreditation will be provided for effective coverage,” Idris stated.
He further emphasised the importance of media involvement in promoting transparency and public awareness, noting that the presence of journalists would enhance credibility and accountability throughout the convention proceedings.
Idris, however, urged media practitioners to maintain professionalism and adhere to ethical standards in their reportage. He stressed the need for accurate, balanced, and responsible journalism, especially in the coverage of politically sensitive events.
“It is important that we report responsibly, honestly, and in the national interest, bearing in mind that Nigeria remains at the heart of everything we do,” he said.
Political analysts have highlighted the significance of the upcoming convention, noting that it comes at a time when political parties are positioning themselves for future contests and governance challenges. They argue that the success of the event will depend not only on turnout but also on the party’s ability to demonstrate unity and strategic direction.
The APC, as the ruling party, is expected to use the convention as an opportunity to reaffirm its policy priorities and strengthen its support base across the country. The Renewed Hope Agenda, which the minister referenced, remains central to the administration’s vision for economic growth, infrastructure development, and national stability.
Security agencies are also expected to play a key role in ensuring the safety of delegates and other participants, given the scale and significance of the event. Although the minister expressed confidence in the current security situation, authorities are likely to maintain heightened vigilance throughout the convention period.
As preparations continue, stakeholders within and outside the party will be watching closely to see how the APC navigates the convention and what outcomes emerge from it. The event is widely seen as a test of the party’s internal strength and its readiness to sustain its dominance in Nigeria’s political landscape.
With thousands of delegates set to converge in Abuja, the convention is poised to be one of the most significant political gatherings in recent times, offering insights into the direction of the ruling party and its plans for the future.
