The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is set for a major political boost as indications emerge that the Governor of Adamawa State, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, may soon defect from the opposition, a move party insiders say would further consolidate its dominance across the federation.

Should the anticipated defection materialise, the APC would effectively control about 30 of Nigeria’s 36 states, marking one of the most expansive territorial spreads by a single political party since the return to democratic governance in 1999.

Fintiri’s possible switch is considered politically significant as Adamawa is the home state of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, a leading opposition figure and major contender in the 2027 presidential race. Analysts say a defection by the sitting governor would weaken Atiku’s base ahead of the polls.

Senior APC sources said the party’s recent momentum follows a wave of strategic realignments nationwide, including preparations to formally receive the Kano State governor, Abba Yusuf, at a high-profile ceremony scheduled for Monday.

According to party insiders, Kano’s entry is viewed as a major political gain, given the state’s large voting population and its strategic importance in North-West politics. “Kano is the nerve centre of politics in the North. Bringing Kano into the APC family significantly weakens opposition strength in the region,” a party source said.

In the South-South, APC leaders also disclosed that Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, is expected to be formally received by the party after the Ramadan fast, a development that would further strengthen the party’s foothold in the oil-rich zone.

Attention has now shifted to the North-East, where APC sources said discussions with Governor Fintiri are ongoing. Once considered a close ally of Atiku Abubakar, Fintiri has in recent weeks toned down his criticism of the ruling party and openly acknowledged consultations with stakeholders over his political future.

Asked about the possibility of joining the APC, the Adamawa governor was quoted as saying he would align with the wishes of his people, noting that politics ultimately revolves around collective interest.

Fueling speculation, APC billboards and flags have reportedly flooded major streets of Yola ahead of President Bola Tinubu’s visit to the state, further stoking rumours of an imminent defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Meanwhile, the APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, dismissed claims that governors were being coerced into joining the ruling party. He attributed the growing influx to what he described as tangible governance outcomes, improved security and massive infrastructure investments by the Tinubu administration.

Yilwatda cited projects such as the Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano gas pipeline, the Abuja–Kaduna–Kano–Maradi rail modernisation, and the Sokoto–Badagry highway corridor as factors reshaping political calculations across states.

According to him, these projects promise industrial growth, enhanced trade, agricultural expansion and long-term economic benefits, making the APC an attractive platform for governors seeking development-driven partnerships.

“There is no coercion,” Yilwatda insisted. “Leaders are aligning because they see opportunities, infrastructure and a clear development direction.”

He maintained that the party’s expanding influence reflects confidence in its policies and capacity to deliver sustained growth, noting that more political realignments could follow in the coming months.