The Steering Committee of the G17 has formally announced the establishment of a National Representative Council, which will serve as the organisation’s interim leadership structure for a period of six months beginning September 1, 2025. The Council is entrusted with guiding G17 through its transition period, ensuring continuity of activities, and preparing the ground for the emergence of a democratically elected government.
The National Representative Council is composed of Dr. Bright Anokwuru as National Chairman representing the South South, Ambassador Nana Aisha Mahmoud as National Vice Chairman representing the North West, Dr. Oludare Atishola as National Secretary representing the South West, Comrade Jude Jonathan as National Organising Secretary representing the North East, Prince Ikokwu Ikemba as National Treasurer representing the South East, and Barrister Yahuza Hamza as National Legal Adviser representing the North Central.
In addition to steering the affairs of G17 during this transitional period, the Council will appoint Directors into the organisation’s existing Directorates such as Research and Policy, Membership and Mobilisation, Communications and Publicity, External Relations, Organisation and Development, as well as Finance and Fundraising. The Council will also oversee the appointment of Zonal Coordinators to strengthen communication and representation across the country.
At the heart of this announcement lies the reaffirmation of G17’s founding principles. The organisation is guided by a constitution that underscores the need for a unified and progressive political movement in Nigeria. In the words of its founding declaration, “We, the members of G17 Group, recognizing the need for a unified and progressive political movement in Nigeria, hereby establish this constitution to promote our shared vision, govern our operations, and ensure the effective and democratic functioning of our group.”
G17 remains committed to advocating good governance, transparency, and accountability in Nigeria. It stands firm in promoting democratic principles and the rule of law, fostering progressive politics and sustainable development, mobilizing support for candidates and policies that reflect its values, and engaging the public in meaningful political and civic education.
In a statement jointly signed by Mahmood Muhammed Katun, Chairman of the Steering Committee, and Hon. TG Graham Gande, PhD, Secretary, confidence was expressed in the ability of the new Council to uphold these values. The statement read in part, “We are confident that the NRC will provide effective leadership and guidance to G17 during this critical period. We look forward to working closely with the NRC members to ensure a smooth and credible transition to an elected government.”
Speaking on behalf of the newly appointed Council, Prince Ikokwu Ikemba, National Treasurer representing the South East, expressed gratitude for the trust reposed in the members and pledged collective commitment to the mandate. “This appointment is a call to service. Together with my colleagues in the NRC, we shall work with transparency, unity, and dedication to strengthen G17 and guide it towards a historic and democratic transition,” he said.
The Steering Committee congratulated the appointed leaders, commending their dedication to national service and their readiness to steer the organisation with vision, integrity, and resilience.