Umuahia Convention: Labour Party Elects Nenadi Usman Chairman, Signals New Era of Unity
The Labour Party has elected Senator Nenadi Usman as its substantive National Chairman at the party’s 2026 National Elective Convention held in Umuahia, Abia State.
Usman, who previously served as Caretaker National Chairman, emerged alongside other members of the National Working Committee (NWC) on Tuesday through a consensus process affirmed by delegates.
Also elected were Hon. Iheanacho Obioma as National Secretary and Hilda Dokubo as National Women Leader.
In his welcome address, the Chairman of the 2026 National Convention Planning Committee, Hon. Ginger Onwusibe, who represents Isialangwa North/South Federal Constituency, expressed deep appreciation to Governor Alex Otti for his unwavering support to the party.
Onwusibe praised the governor’s performance in office, noting that it has earned him recognition as one of the best-performing governors in Nigeria. He also commended Otti for standing firmly with the Labour Party during its period of leadership crisis, describing his role as pivotal to the party’s survival and eventual stability.
“Your Excellency, we are grateful for your exceptional leadership and the remarkable performance that has distinguished you across the country,” he said.
“Your steadfast support for the Labour Party, especially during its challenging period of leadership crisis, played a critical role in sustaining the party and bringing us to this moment of unity and progress.”
In his remarks, Governor Alex Otti commended Hon. Ginger Onwusibe and the Secretary of the Convention Committee, Salisu Nuhu Muhammad, for organizing what he described as a credible and successful convention.
He described Usman as a woman of integrity and congratulated her alongside other members of the newly elected NWC, urging them to brace for the task ahead.
“I am pleased that we have elected individuals who understand what is expected of them, with representation drawn from across the country,” Otti said.
He emphasized the need for reconciliation and inclusiveness within the party.
“Reconciliation and integration of all members of the party is another task before you. Ensure that nobody is left behind.
“Embark on a reconciliation drive. Engage our members and reassure them that they are valued. Politics is a game of numbers; we need as many people as possible.
“Very soon, primary elections will be conducted. It is also part of your responsibility to ensure a rancour-free process ahead of campaigns and the general election. I am confident in your ability to deliver.”
In her acceptance speech, Senator Nenadi Usman thanked delegates for the confidence reposed in her and pledged not to betray their trust.
She also expressed gratitude to Governor Alex Otti for entrusting her with a leadership role often perceived as male-dominated.
“We shall do everything possible to grow the party and make you proud,” she said.
“For you to have entrusted me with this responsibility, I will not let you down. I ask for your maximum cooperation, as building a political party is not the task of an individual.”
The convention attracted high profile personalities across the six geo-political zones of Nigeria,Party delegates, Captains of industries,members of the state house of Assembly, Federal house of Representative members and top government functionaries who were all in cheerful mood during the event.