Labour Party Makes History, Elects Nenadi Usman as First Female Chairman
Senator Nenadi Usman has been elected National Chairman of the Labour Party Nigeria, marking a historic milestone as the first woman to lead a registered political party in Nigeria. The landmark decision was reached on Tuesday during the party’s national convention held in Umuahia.
Usman’s emergence follows a period of transition within the party, having previously served as head of its National Caretaker Committee. Her leadership journey began on September 4, 2024, when she was appointed to steer the party through a turbulent phase after the tenure of the former executive expired, triggering legal and internal disputes.
Drawing on her experience as a former Finance Minister, Usman successfully navigated the party through months of litigation, ultimately securing favourable judgments. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) formally recognised her leadership on January 30, 2026, following a Federal High Court ruling delivered on January 21, 2026. That decision was later upheld unanimously by the Court of Appeal Nigeria on April 21, 2026, solidifying her position within the party.
In her acceptance speech, Usman expressed gratitude to party delegates for the confidence placed in her, pledging to reposition the Labour Party for stronger electoral performance in the years ahead. She assured members of her commitment to delivering effective leadership, stating that she would not fall short of expectations in her new role.
She also commended Alex Otti for his support and leadership, emphasizing the need to strengthen unity, promote reconciliation, and build cohesion within the party as preparations begin for the 2027 general elections. According to her, consolidating the progress made in 2023 remains a top priority.
Governor Otti, in his remarks, charged the newly elected National Working Committee (NWC) to provide purposeful direction and expand the party’s presence nationwide. He urged them to position the Labour Party as a viable and attractive choice for Nigerians.
Alongside Usman, other key party officials were elected into the NWC, including Rt. Hon. Iheanacho Obioma as National Secretary, Mrs. Nike Oriola as Deputy National Chairman, Ken Eluma Asogwa as National Publicity Secretary, Mrs. Oluchi Oparah as National Organising Secretary, Comrade Anslem Eragbe as National Financial Secretary, and actress Hilda Dokubo as National Women Leader.
The newly constituted leadership was sworn in immediately after the election and has officially assumed office. With Usman at the helm, the Labour Party is now looking to build on its recent momentum and strengthen its position ahead of future political contests.
