The All Progressives Congress has appointed two former Senate presidents and a former speaker of the House of Representatives to prominent roles, the party announced on Thursday. The appointments signal the ruling party's effort to fold in senior figures from Nigeria's political establishment as it consolidates power ahead of the 2027 elections.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State was among those tapped for positions, though the APC did not immediately specify what roles the appointees would hold. Sources within the party said the move reflected President Bola Tinubu's strategy of building a broad coalition that spans different political generations and regions.
The two former Senate presidents and the ex-speaker have substantial influence within their respective political circles and control significant blocs of supporters. By bringing them into the fold, the APC hopes to strengthen its grip in key states and weaken the opposition's ability to mobilize support.
Party officials described the appointments as a natural extension of the APC's inclusive approach to governance. The party has made similar moves in recent months, bringing former governors and lawmakers into its structures and assigning them roles in campaign mobilization and party administration.
The announcement sparked celebration among party members, who see the appointments as validation of the APC's dominance in Nigerian politics. However, observers noted that such moves often come with expectations of loyalty and electoral support, meaning the appointees will likely be expected to deliver votes in their constituencies during the 2027 presidential and general elections.
The APC's National Executive Committee will formalize the appointments at its next scheduled meeting. Party officials said more names could be announced in the coming weeks as the party continues its expansion drive.
