PDP National Chairman Umar Damagum has been confirmed by the party’s NEC, marking a new phase of leadership and stability ahead of the November 2025 convention
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has officially confirmed Amb. Iliya Umar Damagum as its substantive national chairperson, reinforcing the party’s efforts to consolidate unity, strengthen its leadership, and prepare for the upcoming national convention.
The announcement was made during the PDP’s 102nd National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, held on Monday, 25th August 2025, at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja.
Following the NEC’s decision, the party’s National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade, administered the oath of office to Mr. Damagum, officially inaugurating him as the PDP’s substantive national chairman.
The NEC is the highest decision-making body of the PDP, comprising a broad spectrum of influential party figures.
This includes state governors, serving and former presidents, former vice-presidents, the chairperson and secretary of the Board of Trustees (BoT), principal officers of the National Assembly, all state chairpersons, members of the National Working Committee (NWC), former governors, and founding members, among others.
Its role is critical in shaping party policies, resolving internal disputes, and ensuring cohesive leadership.
In a communique issued after the meeting, the NEC stated that Mr. Damagum’s confirmation was in recognition of his leadership role in stabilizing the party.
The statement emphasized, “In recognition of the efforts of the National Working Committee (NWC) under the leadership of Acting National Chairman, Amb. Iliya Umar Damagum, in stabilising the party, the NEC hereby ratifies and confirms his appointment as substantive national chairman of the PDP with effect from today, Monday, 25th August 2025, until the national convention holding at Ibadan, the Oyo State Capital, on 15th to 16th November 2025.”
Mr. Damagum had been serving in an acting capacity since March 2023, following the suspension of former National Chairman Iyorchia Ayu due to internal party crises.
His assumption of the acting role was subsequently affirmed by a court ruling that upheld Mr. Ayu’s removal, providing legal backing for his leadership and allowing him to steer the party through a period of uncertainty.
Before assuming the acting chairmanship, Mr. Damagum held the position of PDP National Deputy Chairperson (North).
According to the party’s constitution, if the national chairperson resigns, is suspended, or otherwise unable to serve, the deputy national chairperson from the same regional section as the outgoing chairperson automatically assumes leadership.
Both Mr. Ayu, who hails from Benue State, and Mr. Damagum, from Yobe State, are from Northern Nigeria, ensuring continuity in regional representation.
In his acceptance speech, Mr. Damagum expressed deep appreciation to the NEC members for their confidence in his leadership and the trust placed in him by party stakeholders.
“This gesture is not just for me, but for all of us, because I owe it to those who have been part of this journey.
“I want to remind us that we came in at a very difficult time, but to the glory of the Lord, we are still united as one party,” he said, acknowledging the collective efforts that have kept the party cohesive during challenging periods.
He added, “This is what has made this gesture possible. My appreciation goes to all NEC members, all PDP members here and at home,” highlighting the collaborative spirit that has guided the party under his leadership.
The confirmation of Mr. Damagum as substantive national chairman comes at a critical moment for the PDP, as the party ramps up preparations for its national convention in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Analysts note that his leadership is expected to strengthen party structures, resolve lingering internal disputes, and position the PDP strategically for upcoming elections.
Political observers believe that with Mr. Damagum now formally at the helm, the PDP can project unity, improve its organizational efficiency, and present a coherent agenda to the electorate.
His tenure as substantive chairman is seen as an opportunity to consolidate gains made under his acting leadership and to foster confidence among party members at both national and state levels.
As Nigeria’s political landscape continues to evolve, the PDP’s confirmation of Umar Damagum signals the party’s determination to maintain stability, enhance internal democracy, and ensure a smooth transition into its next phase of leadership, ahead of the crucial national convention scheduled for November 2025.