BREAKING: Nenadi Usman Makes History as Labour Party’s First Female National Chairman

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The Labour Party has elected Nenadi Usman as its National Chairman at its national convention held on Tuesday in Umuahia.

Her emergence marks a historic milestone, as she becomes the first woman to be elected National Chairman of a political party in Nigeria.

Usman previously served as head of the party’s National Caretaker Committee, a position she assumed on September 4, 2024, following the expiration of the tenure of the former National Working Committee. During her time in the role, she successfully navigated the party through a period of internal crisis and leadership disputes, which were ultimately resolved in her favour by the appellate court.

Her leadership was earlier recognised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) after a Federal High Court judgement delivered on January 21, 2026, affirming her position. The ruling was subsequently upheld by the Court of Appeal on April 21, 2026.

A former Minister of Finance and senator, Usman is widely regarded as an experienced political figure, bringing both administrative expertise and legislative experience to her new role.

In her acceptance speech, she expressed appreciation to party members for the trust placed in her and pledged to reposition the party for greater electoral success ahead of the 2027 general elections. She also emphasised her commitment to unity, peace, and reconciliation within the party.

Usman commended the Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, for his support, assuring members that she would deliver on the party’s expectations.

Speaking at the event, Otti urged the newly elected National Working Committee to provide purposeful leadership and strengthen party structures across the country.

Other members elected into the National Working Committee include Iheanacho Obioma as National Secretary, Nike Oriola as Deputy National Chairman, Ken Eluma Asogwa as National Publicity Secretary, Oluchi Oparah as National Organising Secretary, Anslem Eragbe as National Financial Secretary, and Hilda Dokubo as National Women Leader.

The newly elected officials were sworn in at the convention.