The Labour Party has elected Nenadi Usman as its new National Chairman at a national convention held in Umuahia, marking a historic milestone as she becomes the first woman to lead a major political party in Nigeria.
Her emergence follows her earlier role as head of the party’s National Caretaker Committee, a position she assumed in September 2024 after a leadership vacuum. During that period, Usman navigated internal disputes that were eventually settled in her favour by both the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal.
A former Minister of Finance and ex-senator, Usman now takes on the responsibility of repositioning the party ahead of the 2027 general elections. The Labour Party, which gained significant traction during the 2023 elections, is expected to consolidate its growing political influence under her leadership.
Her leadership had already received formal recognition from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in January 2026, following a court ruling affirming her position—later upheld on appeal.
In her acceptance speech, Usman thanked party members for their trust and pledged to strengthen unity within the party. She also commended Alex Otti for his leadership and support.
Governor Otti, in his remarks, urged the newly elected National Working Committee to provide strong and effective leadership while expanding the party’s structures nationwide.
Also elected at the convention was Ken Eluma Asogwa as National Publicity Secretary, alongside other members of the National Working Committee, who were subsequently sworn in.
