The National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has confirmed Ambassador Umar Damagum as the party’s substantive National Chairman.
The decision was taken on Monday during the PDP’s 102nd NEC meeting in Abuja. Proceedings were briefly suspended to allow for Damagum’s swearing-in, which was conducted by the party’s National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade.
In his acceptance speech, Damagum thanked members of the National Working Committee (NWC) for their support and expressed appreciation to NEC for recognising his efforts in stabilising the party.
“I thank my colleagues in the NWC who have made my work easier, and I also thank NEC members for appreciating the steps we have taken to reposition our party,” he said.
Damagum had been serving as acting national chairman since March 2023, following the suspension of Senator Iyorchia Ayu—a decision upheld by the courts. Prior to that, he held the position of PDP Deputy National Chairman (North).
In a communiqué issued after the meeting, the party said his confirmation was based on the NWC’s performance under his leadership.
“NEC hereby ratifies and confirms the appointment of Umar Damagum as the substantive National Chairman of the party with effect from Monday, August 25, 2025, until the national convention holding in Ibadan, Oyo State, on November 15–16, 2025,” the communiqué stated.
The NEC also reaffirmed its commitment to repositioning the PDP ahead of the 2027 general elections.
