The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has inaugurated its Elective National Convention Zoning Committee ahead of the party’s national convention scheduled for November 15–16 in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The 44-member committee, made up of 37 state representatives and 6 members from the party’s Board of Trustees, is chaired by Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State, with Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, serving as Secretary.
Speaking during the inauguration at the PDP National Secretariat in Abuja, the Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Damagum, described the committee as the “engine room” for laying the political foundation of the party’s leadership for the next four years.
“The decisions you take will shape our ability to serve Nigerians, win elections, and defend the democratic values we represent.
“The PDP is bigger than any individual and stronger than any momentary setbacks. The next National Working Committee must be visionary, courageous, and proactive with leaders of integrity, creativity, and capacity” Damagum said.
He stressed the importance of fairness, equity, and strategic thinking in the zoning process, urging members to prioritise competence alongside loyalty.
He also called on the committee to make decisions that will restore hope and inspire confidence among Nigerians.
Chairman of the PDP Governors Forum, Senator Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, in his goodwill message, commended the committee and reaffirmed the governors’ support for the party’s repositioning efforts.
He says, “The governors are fully behind the National Working Committee to ensure the PDP remains a credible alternative for Nigerians,” he said. “All measurable achievements in Nigeria’s democratic history bear the mark of the PDP. We cannot afford another period of hunger, anger, and disillusionment. This committee has the pedigree and capacity to deliver.”
Governor Douye Diri, in his acceptance remarks, assured that the committee would be consultative and fair in producing a zoning formula that will unite Nigerians and strengthen the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“We will partner and consult widely to arrive at a fair and just zoning arrangement for our party,” Diri said.
The PDP’s National Convention in November is expected to elect new members of the National Working Committee and set the tone for the party’s preparations for the 2027 polls
