The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has inaugurated 39 newly nominated members of its Board of Trustees (BoT).
Drawn from the six geopolitical zones and the Federal Capital Territory, the members were inaugurated on Monday, at the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) Hall in Abuja.
The new members include former Governors, Samuel Ortorm of Benue; Babangida Aliyu of Niger State; Lucky Igbinedion of Edo State; Gayius Ishaku of Taraba State; Ibrahim Shekarau, former Kano State Governor; Labaran Maku; Zainab Kure, and Senator Auwal Tukur.
Others are Onikepo Oshodi, Hamid Badamasi Bello Suleiman, Mohammed Gusau, Bagudu Hilse, Mustapha Kabir, Zainab Galadinma, Chinwe Onuora, Gbenga Onigbogi and Mulikat Ladoja.
Those present at the ceremony included the BoT chairman, Senator Adolphus Wabara; former Minister of Information, Professor Jerry Gana; former Governor of Enugu State, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi; former Minister of Information, Labaran Maku; former Presidential Adviser on Inter-Party Affairs, Senator Ben Ndi Obi; Secretary of the BoT, Senator Ahmed Makarfi; Senator Zainab Kure; Acting National Secretary, Setonji Koshoedo; Financial Secretary, Daniel Woyegikuro; Deputy National Youth Leader, Hon Timothy Osadolor; alongside other key members of the party’s National Working Committee.
Speaking at the event, Wabara declared that the party will rise again, reaffirming its unity and strength as it prepares for the 2027 general elections.
He said, “I am truly overwhelmed, and I am certain that my colleagues and friends here today share this sentiment. It is deeply moving to witness the enduring strength and quality of Nigerians within this great party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). This speaks volumes about our resilience and unity.
“Today, we are honoured to witness the inauguration of new members to the Board of Trustees, in line with Section 32 (1f) and (g) of our party’s Constitution, as amended in 2027. This occasion is not only a celebration of a new beginning but also a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to the values and principles that define the PDP.
“Your appointment is a call to service; a call to uphold the integrity, unity, and vision of the PDP as we strive for a more prosperous and democratic Nigeria.
“As custodians of the party’s conscience, the Board of Trustees plays a critical role in offering wise counsel, fostering stability, and ensuring that our decisions align with the core objectives of the PDP. We are privileged to have such experienced individuals join the Board of Trustees. Your wisdom will undoubtedly guide us to success in 2027 and beyond.
“We do not hold meetings frequently, but we convene when necessary, in accordance with our Constitution and in response to challenges. Some may perceive the Board of Trustees as slow, but we are deliberate and diplomatic in our approach. The PDP has risen, and the PDP will triumph in 2027. We remain committed to producing leaders who will serve with dedication and integrity, prioritising the interests of all Nigerians. This gathering is critical. Had we known the extent of support and presence from such esteemed members, we would have gone to even greater lengths to showcase the vitality of the PDP.
“Nevertheless, I implore the media here today to capture the essence of this event. The presence of such a distinguished retinue dispels any speculation about disunity or defections. As long as the Board of Trustees remains vibrant, the PDP remains alive. The PDP shall rise again, and I am confident in our collective resolve to achieve this.”
Iliya Damagum, the acting National Chairman of the Party, represented by the acting National Secretary, Setonji Koshoedo, also noted that the Board of Trustees as the conscience of the party, the Constitution entrusts it with the great responsibility of guiding the PDP; not just as Nigeria’s leading party but as a beacon for Africa.