Governor Fintiri To Lead PDP’s 2025 National Convention Organising Committee.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has appointed Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri as chairman of its 110-member National Convention Organising Committee, tasked with overseeing the party’s elective national convention scheduled for 15 and 16 November 2025 in Ibadan, Oyo State. The announcement, made on 18 August 2025 by PDP National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba, underscores the party’s commitment to a seamless and transparent event aimed at revitalising its leadership and strengthening its position ahead of future elections.
Fintiri, a seasoned politician known for his inclusive leadership style, will be supported by Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke as deputy chairman and former Minister Kabiru Tanimu Turaki as second deputy chairman. Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah will serve as the committee’s secretary. The diverse committee includes prominent PDP figures such as Board of Trustees Chairman Senator Adolphus Wabara, Acting National Chairman Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagum, Deputy National Chairman (South) Alhaji Taofeek Arapaja, and National Secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu. Other notable members include former Vice-President Namadi Sambo, Bauchi State Governor Bala Muhammed, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, and former Senate President Bukola Saraki, alongside governors from Plateau, Taraba, Zamfara, and the suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
The PDP’s National Executive Committee (NEC) resolved to hold the convention to elect a new National Working Committee (NWC), with the goal of repositioning the party for national relevance. Ologunagba emphasised that the committee is mandated to ensure a hitch-free convention, leveraging technology and integrity-based accreditation to enhance transparency. The party has also established a 44-member zoning committee, chaired by Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri, to allocate NWC positions across geopolitical zones and determine whether the North or South will produce the next national chairman.
In Adamawa, local PDP leaders have expressed strong confidence in Fintiri’s ability to deliver a successful convention. Guyuk Local Government Area Chairman Kassah Shallom praised Fintiri’s track record, citing his previous success as chairman of the 2021 PDP National Convention. “His exemplary leadership and peacemaking skills make him the ideal choice to steer this critical event,” Shallom said, noting the unity and empowerment fostered under Fintiri’s governance in Adamawa.
The appointment comes amidst challenges for the PDP, including the recent defection of former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar’s allies to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Despite this, Fintiri has pledged to deliver “the best convention ever,” aiming to unify the party and enhance its electoral prospects. The convention is seen as a pivotal moment for the PDP to address internal divisions and present a cohesive front to Nigerians seeking an alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Political analysts view the move as a strategic step to reinvigorate the PDP, which has faced fragmentation with figures like Peter Obi aligning with the Labour Party and Atiku’s reported shift to the ADC. Fintiri’s leadership is expected to draw on his reputation as a unifier to stabilise the party. The inclusion of high-profile members across Nigeria’s regions signals the PDP’s intent to foster inclusivity and broaden its appeal.
As preparations intensify, the PDP has called on its members and supporters to rally behind the committee’s efforts. With Ibadan set to host the convention, the party aims to showcase its organisational strength and commitment to democratic principles, setting the stage for a robust challenge in the 2027 general elections.