Diri, Mutfwang emerges as Chairman and Secretary of National Convention Zoning Committee of PDP

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has inaugurated the National Convention Zoning Committee, tasking it with the responsibility of laying a solid political foundation for the party’s future leadership, recruiting credible individuals, and presenting Nigerians with a viable alternative ahead of the 2027 General Elections.

The committee is chaired by the Governor of Bayelsa State, His Excellency, Senator Douye Diri, with the Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, serving as Secretary. Other members were drawn from across the 36 states of the federation.

Inaugurating the committee at the PDP National Secretariat on Thursday, August 14, 2025, the Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagum, described the body as “the conscience and engine room of the party,” carefully assembled to chart the course for the enthronement of credible and visionary leadership over the next four years.

“The decisions you take will shape our ability to serve Nigerians, win elections, and defend the democratic values we represent,” Damagum said. “The next National Working Committee must not only be representative, but also visionary, courageous, and proactive. We need leaders of integrity, creativity, and capacity, people who inspire confidence, mobilise effectively, and speak to the hopes of Nigerians.”

Highlighting the turbulent political terrain the party operates in, the Acting National Chairman stressed the need for the zoning process to be guided by fairness, equity, and strategic thinking. He insisted it must strengthen unity, reward loyalty, and position the PDP for victory in 2027. "Loyalty is the lifeblood of our party; without it, unity is impossible. Yet loyalty alone is not enough. It must walk hand in hand with competence,” he added.

The Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum and Governor of Bauchi State, Senator Bala Muhammed, pledged total support for the committee in identifying credible leaders who can deliver electoral success.

Speaking on behalf of the Board of Trustees, former Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Inna Ciroma, underscored the importance of inclusiveness, fairness, and collective resolve to rescue the nation from decline.

The Senate Minority Leader and Chairman of the PDP National Assembly Caucus, Sen. Abba Moro also assured the committee of the legislature’s support in producing a leadership team capable of restoring hope to Nigerians.

In his remarks, Governor Douye Diri expressed gratitude for the confidence reposed in the committee and promised an inclusive and transparent process aimed at rebuilding the party to meet the yearnings of Nigerians. The committee immediately proceeded to hold its inaugural meeting.