In a decisive move to strengthen its leadership, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has appointed Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda, current Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, as its new National Chairman. The 56-year-old academic and politician was unanimously elected during Thursday’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Abuja, marking a new chapter for the ruling party.
The leadership transition follows the June resignation of former chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, who stepped down citing personal reasons.
The succession process gained momentum when Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, formally nominated Yilwatda for the position. The motion received immediate endorsement from House of Representatives Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, before being approved through voice vote by NEC members present at the crucial meeting.
Yilwatda’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment for the APC as the ruling party seeks to capitalize on recent political gains. The party has been bolstered by the high-profile defection of several stakeholders from opposition parties, and views Yilwatda’s impressive academic credentials and administrative experience as vital assets for consolidating its national dominance ahead of future elections.
A distinguished professor and former governorship candidate in Plateau State, Yilwatda brings a unique combination of intellectual heft and practical political experience to the role.
His extensive background includes serving as Resident Electoral Commissioner for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), where he gained valuable insights into Nigeria’s electoral processes. He has also been recognized for his pioneering work in developing technology-driven governance solutions, along with his expertise in policy development and implementation.
As the new chairman assumes office, his immediate priorities will focus on strengthening party structures across all levels to prepare for upcoming electoral contests. Another critical task will be managing the integration of new members who have recently defected from opposition parties, ensuring their smooth assimilation into the APC fold. Yilwatda is also expected to play a central role in developing comprehensive policy frameworks that will support and advance the APC’s national agenda in line with President Tinubu’s vision for the country.
The new chairman takes office with immediate effect, though party officials have clarified that his dual roles as both minister and party chairman are temporary arrangements pending an expected cabinet reshuffle.
Senior party members have expressed unanimous confidence that Yilwatda’s leadership will usher in a period of stability, growth and electoral success for the ruling party, building on its current momentum.
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