Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, newly appointed National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), delivered a compelling acceptance speech following his confirmation at the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Abuja.
The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development was unanimously selected to replace Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, who resigned in June 2025 citing health concerns.
Yilwatda’s appointment, backed by President Bola Tinubu and key party stakeholders, marks a pivotal moment for the ruling party as it navigates internal challenges and prepares for future elections.
In his speech, Prof. Yilwatda emphasized unity and growth, declaring, “My pledge, without hesitation, is that I will work with everybody in the party, I will unite the party, I will build the party, and I will expand the party.”
His words shows a commitment to healing divisions within the APC, particularly in the North-Central region, where stakeholders had expressed concerns over being sidelined following the controversial appointment of Ganduje, a North-West native, in 2023.
Yilwatda’s selection restores the chairmanship to the North-Central zone, aligning with the party’s zoning arrangement.
The 56-year-old Plateau State native, a seasoned engineer and academic, highlighted his vision to strengthen the APC’s structure and broaden its appeal.
Drawing on his extensive experience as a former Resident Electoral Commissioner for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Benue State and his role as the APC’s 2023 governorship candidate in Plateau, Yilwatda positioned himself as a technocrat ready to bring reform and inclusivity to the party.
His nomination, moved by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma, Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, and seconded by Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, was formalized during a strategic meeting at the Presidential Villa.
Yilwatda’s speech also addressed the need to address internal party tensions and prepare for upcoming political activities.
However, Yilwatda faces challenges, including uniting factions within the party and addressing speculations about alternative candidates like former Nasarawa Governor Tanko Al-Makura.As the APC looks toward 2027, Yilwatda’s leadership will be tested by his ability to deliver on his promise of a united and expanded party.
His academic background, professional credentials as a registered engineer, and political experience position him as a unique figure to steer Nigeria’s ruling party through a critical period.
