The All Progressives Congress is projecting an unprecedented organizational footprint as it prepares for the 2027 general election. National Chairman Prof Nentawe Yilwatda has announced figures that position the party as a dominant force in Nigeria's political landscape.

Introduction

Prof Nentawe Yilwatda's remarks at the APC national secretariat highlight the party's massive membership base and structural dominance as it gears up for the 2027 general election. The figures underscore the APC's position as the country's leading political force.

What Happened

During a meeting with an ECOWAS fact-finding mission, Prof Yilwatda disclosed that the APC has approximately 13 million registered members across all local government areas, supported by a detailed verification system using voter and national identification numbers. The party also boasts 31 governors, 88 senators, 208 members of the House of Representatives, and over 261,000 executive members spanning its hierarchical structure from wards to the national level.

Yilwatda emphasized that the APC's nationwide structures, grassroots network, and established internal systems give it a structural advantage estimated to be nearly three times that of its closest rival. The party has already inaugurated its campaign council, uploaded candidates to the Independent National Electoral Commission's portal, and is actively engaging support groups for youth, women, and persons with disabilities.

Why This Matters

These figures come as the 2027 election approaches, and the APC's organizational scale could significantly influence voter mobilization and campaign logistics. Yilwatda argued that such a massive, verified membership base and extensive elected representation provide the party with unparalleled capacity to connect policies with citizens and coordinate electoral efforts.

The chairman also used the occasion to highlight President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's infrastructure projects, including the Trans-Sahara Superhighway, as tangible campaign assets. He noted that roads like the Akwanga-Jos section, built with rigid concrete pavement, represent long-term development that resonates with voters. Additionally, Yilwatda stressed the importance of INEC adhering to its published electoral timetable, arguing that fairness must apply equally to all parties.

Key Takeaways

  • The APC claims 13 million registered members, supported by verified identity cards and NIN/voter details.
  • The party holds 31 governorships, 88 Senate seats, and 208 House of Representatives seats.
  • Over 261,000 executive members operate across the party's hierarchical structure.
  • Infrastructure projects, particularly the Trans-Sahara Superhighway, are framed as campaign assets demonstrating tangible governance.
  • Yilwatda has called on INEC to stick to its published election timetable for a fair and transparent 2027 process.

Conclusion

As the 2027 general election draws nearer, the APC's stated membership numbers and structural reach present a significant benchmark for other parties. Whether these figures translate into electoral advantage will depend on voter turnout, campaign effectiveness, and INEC's commitment to an even playing field. Yilwatda's remarks underscore that the party's strength lies in its extensive organization, not assumptions of automatic victory.