The Labour Party has made political history following its National Elective Congress held in Umuahia on Tuesday, where former Minister of Finance, Nenadi Usman, emerged as the party’s substantive National Chairman.
Her emergence marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s democratic journey, as she becomes the first woman to be elected as the national chairman of a major political party in the country.
The congress, which attracted top party leaders and delegates from across Nigeria, also saw the election of a new National Working Committee (NWC) tasked with repositioning the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
A New Era for Labour Party
Nenadi Usman had previously served as Chairman of the party’s National Caretaker Committee after being appointed in September 2024 amid a fierce leadership crisis that rocked the party.
Her leadership was later affirmed by both the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal after months of legal battles over the authentic leadership of the party.
Her election at the congress is seen by many political observers as a move to consolidate peace and unify the party after the prolonged internal wrangling involving former chairman Julius Abure and other factions.
In her acceptance speech, Usman thanked party members for their confidence in her leadership and promised to reposition the party for victory.
She said the Labour Party must focus on reconciliation, peace, and strengthening its internal structures across the country.
Other Elected National Officers
Other officials elected during the congress include:
Iheanacho Obioma – National Secretary
Nike Oriola – Deputy National Chairman
Ken Eluma Asogwa – National Publicity Secretary
Oluchi Oparah – National Organising Secretary
Anslem Eragbe – National Financial Secretary
Hilda Dokubo – National Women Leader
The newly elected officers were immediately sworn in after the congress.
Alex Otti Calls for Unity
Governor Alex Otti, who played a prominent role at the event, congratulated the new executives and urged them to work towards reconciliation and integration of all aggrieved members.
He stressed that the party must remain united to maintain its momentum from the 2023 elections, where it emerged as one of Nigeria’s strongest opposition parties.
What Nenadi Usman’s Emergence Means for 2027
Nenadi Usman’s emergence is expected to reshape the future of the Labour Party ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
With her experience as a former senator, former finance minister, and seasoned political administrator, analysts believe she may bring stability and strategic direction to the party.
Her emergence may also strengthen the influence of key Labour Party figures like Peter Obi and Governor Alex Otti as the party seeks to rebuild and challenge the ruling APC in 2027.
A Milestone for Women in Politics
Beyond party politics, Usman’s election is being celebrated as a major victory for women in leadership and political inclusion in Nigeria.
For decades, women have remained underrepresented in top political positions despite increasing calls for gender equality.
Her emergence may inspire more women to seek leadership roles across political parties and governance structures.
As Nigeria’s political landscape gradually evolves, Nenadi Usman’s victory may be remembered as one of the defining moments in the country’s democratic history.
