Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda Elected Unanimously as APC National Chairman

The National Executive Committee (NEC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has unanimously elected Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda as the new National Chairman of the ruling party. The decision came at the conclusion of a closed-door meeting held at the APC National Secretariat in Abuja on Thursday.

Prof. Yilwatda, who currently serves as Nigeria’s Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, succeeds Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, who stepped down earlier this week to attend to what party officials described as "crucial private matters."

Unanimous Decision by Party Leadership

A communiqué issued after the NEC meeting stated that the election of Professor Yilwatda was without opposition, with delegates from all six geopolitical zones endorsing his candidacy in what party insiders described as a "consensus of confidence and vision."

“This is a moment of unity and strategic continuity for the APC,” said a senior NEC member. “Prof. Yilwatda’s track record, loyalty to the party, and vision for inclusive leadership made him the natural choice to lead us into the next phase.”

Who Is Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda?

Born on August 8, 1968, in Dungung, Kanke Local Government Area of Plateau State, Prof. Yilwatda is widely regarded as a technocrat with political instinct, combining academic brilliance, digital expertise, and humanitarian advocacy.

He earned his first degree from the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, a master's from ATBU Bauchi, and a PhD in Electronic and Computer Engineering from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Over a distinguished 26-year academic career, he served as a senior lecturer and the pioneer Director of ICT at his alma mater, revolutionizing administrative and learning systems through technology.

His contributions to the digital transformation of Nigeria extended into consultancy roles with international bodies such as UNICEF, the EU, the World Bank, and TECHVILE USA. His innovations positioned him as a key player in aligning Nigeria's technological aspirations with global development goals.

Public Service and Electoral Reform Legacy

In 2017, Prof. Yilwatda was appointed Resident Electoral Commissioner with INEC. During his tenure, he introduced progressive policies aimed at improving voter inclusion, especially for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and People Living with Disabilities (PWDs). His reforms significantly shaped the digital evolution of Nigeria’s electoral processes.

In 2021, he resigned from INEC to contest the Plateau State governorship under the APC, where he also served as Coordinator for the Tinubu/Shettima Presidential Campaign in the state during the 2023 elections.

Ministerial Role and Broader Influence

Currently serving as the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Yilwatda has been instrumental in reshaping Nigeria’s social protection framework and poverty alleviation strategies. His approach emphasizes data-driven policy implementation and inclusive development.

He also sits on the Presidential Economic Management Team and chairs the Euro-African Dialogue on Migration and Development, expanding Nigeria’s diplomatic and economic engagement with the international community.

What His Leadership Means for the APC

Political analysts suggest that Yilwatda’s emergence marks a shift toward technocratic leadership within the APC, as the party gears up for internal restructuring, reconciliation among factions, and strategic planning ahead of the 2027 general elections.

As National Chairman, Prof. Yilwatda is expected to drive innovation in party operations, strengthen grassroots structures, and restore cohesion among party ranks.

“He brings discipline, competence, and a fresh energy that could redefine the APC’s image, especially among Nigeria’s growing youthful electorate,” said a political analyst familiar with party dynamics.

Looking Ahead

With a unique blend of technology, governance, and humanitarian service, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda assumes leadership of Africa’s largest political party at a critical time in Nigeria’s political and economic transition. His leadership will be closely watched for how he navigates internal party challenges, electoral preparations, and national policymaking alignment with APC's progressive ideals.

As he takes the reins, the APC—and indeed, Nigeria’s political landscape—enters a new chapter.