The (LP) has elected Nenadi Usman as its National Chairman at the party’s national convention held on Tuesday in .
With her emergence, Usman makes history as the first woman to be elected National Chairman of a political party in Nigeria, marking a significant milestone in the country’s political landscape.
Usman’s rise follows her earlier appointment on September 4, 2024, as head of the party’s National Caretaker Committee during a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Umuahia. The appointment came amid a leadership vacuum created by the expiration of the tenure of the former National Working Committee.
She successfully led the party through a turbulent period characterised by internal leadership disputes, which were eventually resolved in her favour by the appellate court. Her leadership was further solidified after recognition by the (INEC), following a Federal High Court judgement delivered on January 21, 2026, affirming her position. The decision was subsequently upheld by the Court of Appeal in a unanimous ruling on April 21, 2026.
A former Minister of Finance and senator, Usman is widely regarded as an experienced political figure, bringing administrative expertise and strategic capacity to her new role. As the 2027 general elections approach, she is expected to play a key role in positioning the party for electoral success.
Riding on its strong performance in the 2023 general elections, the Labour Party has established itself as a formidable political platform, a momentum Usman is now tasked with consolidating.
In her acceptance speech, Usman expressed gratitude to party members for the confidence reposed in her and pledged to reposition the party for greater achievements. She also commended , Governor of Abia State, for his support, assuring members of her commitment to unity, peace, and reconciliation within the party ahead of the next general elections.
In his remarks, Governor Otti charged the newly elected National Working Committee (NWC) to provide purposeful leadership and strengthen the party’s structures across the country.
Other members elected into the NWC include as National Secretary; as Deputy National Chairman; as National Publicity Secretary; as National Organising Secretary; as National Financial Secretary; and as National Women Leader.
The newly elected National Working Committee was sworn in at the convention, marking a new chapter in the party’s leadership.
