The Acting National Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagum, has inaugurated the party’s National Convention Zoning Committee (NCZC), charging its members to ensure fairness, equity, and strategic thinking in determining the distribution of leadership positions ahead of the next National Convention.
Speaking at the event in Abuja on Thursday, Damagum described the committee as the “engine room” for laying the political foundation of the party’s leadership over the next four years.
He stressed that its decisions would be crucial in strengthening the PDP’s unity, winning future elections, and defending democratic values.
“Our zoning process must strengthen our unity, reward loyalty, and position us for electoral victory. We need leaders of integrity, creativity, and capacity—people who can inspire confidence, mobilise effectively, and speak to the hopes of Nigerians,” Damagum said.
The PDP helmsman noted that despite leadership changes and the defection of some members in recent times, the party had remained resilient because it was “bigger than any individual” and “destined to remain a central force in Nigeria’s democratic journey.”
He urged the committee to give equal attention to deputy positions, citing his own experience of rising from Deputy National Chairman (North) to Acting National Chairman due to unforeseen political circumstances.
“Loyalty is the lifeblood of our party, but it must walk hand in hand with competence,” he added, advising members to select individuals who would embody the PDP’s values and inspire pride across the country.
Damagum also cautioned against sentiment in decision-making, urging pragmatic choices that would restore public confidence in the democratic process, particularly in light of current economic challenges.
He commended the members of the zoning committee for accepting the assignment and expressed confidence in their ability to work with “justice, inclusivity, and foresight” for the good of the party.