Abuja, Nigeria – The All Progressives Congress (APC), Nigeria's ruling party, has ushered in a new era of leadership with the appointment of Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda as its National Chairman. His emergence, ratified by the party's National Executive Committee (NEC) today, marks a significant shift, bringing a blend of academic rigor, administrative experience, and political acumen to the party's highest office.

Professor Yilwatda, born on August 8, 1968, hails from Plateau State and steps into this pivotal role succeeding Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, who recently resigned. His appointment comes after a period of intense consultations, culminating in a consensus nomination following a late-night meeting between President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and APC governors in Abuja.

A Multifaceted Background

Professor Yilwatda's profile is a testament to his diverse and impactful career. Before his foray into mainstream politics, he was a distinguished academic and engineer. He spent 12 years as the ICT Director at the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, demonstrating his expertise in digital systems and energy engineering. His academic journey includes a First Degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering from the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, and higher degrees (Master of Engineering and PhD) from Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, respectively.

Beyond academia, Professor Yilwatda has held significant public service roles. Notably, he served as a Resident Electoral Commissioner with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for Benue State from July 2017 to December 2021. During his tenure at INEC, he was instrumental in advocating for policy amendments to the Electoral Act and developing frameworks for voter inclusivity, particularly for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and People Living with Disabilities (PWDs).

From Gubernatorial Candidate to Party Chairman

Professor Yilwatda is no stranger to the political arena. He was the APC's gubernatorial candidate for Plateau State in the 2023 general elections, a contest that further solidified his presence within the party. His nomination as National Chairman aligns with the party's zoning arrangement, which has allocated the position to the North-Central geopolitical zone. Furthermore, his Christian faith is believed to have played a role in his selection, as the party aims to project inclusivity and broader appeal given the Muslim-Muslim ticket of the President and Vice President.

Prior to his elevation to the party's top job, Professor Yilwatda also served as the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, a position he assumed in October 2024 under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration.

A New Face for the APC?

Insiders suggest that Professor Yilwatda's appointment signals a strategic move by the APC to reinvigorate its image. Described as "young, suave, well-educated, and without the usual political baggage," he is anticipated to bring fresh perspectives and restore credibility to the party ahead of future elections. His blend of academic, bureaucratic, and political experience is seen as a valuable asset as the APC navigates its path forward.

As Professor Nentawe Yilwatda steps into his new role, all eyes will be on his leadership and vision for the All Progressives Congress, with expectations high for a renewed sense of purpose and direction within the party.