The Labour Party has elected Nenadi Usman as its National Chairman at its national convention held on Tuesday in Umuahia, Abia State.
With her emergence, Usman becomes the first woman to be elected National Chairman of a political party in Nigeria.
Her election follows months of leadership transition within the party. In September 2024, she was appointed to head the party’s National Caretaker Committee after the tenure of the previous National Working Committee expired, creating a leadership vacuum.
During her time in the caretaker role, Usman oversaw a period marked by internal disputes, which were eventually resolved through court rulings that affirmed her leadership. A Federal High Court judgement in January 2026 recognised her position, a decision later upheld by the Court of Appeal in April 2026.
A former Minister of Finance and senator, Usman is expected to bring significant experience to her new role.
In her acceptance speech, she thanked party members for their trust and pledged to reposition the party ahead of future elections. She emphasised her commitment to unity, reconciliation, and strengthening the party’s structure nationwide.
She also appreciated the support of Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, assuring members that she would work to justify the confidence placed in her.
Speaking at the convention, Otti called on the newly elected leadership to provide strong direction and consolidate the party’s growth 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, marking the beginning of a new leadership phase for the party.
