Professor Nentawe Yilwatda has been elected APC Chairman, succeeding Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje. Discover his background, vision, and what this leadership shift means for the APC.
Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, the current Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, has officially clinched the position of APC Chairman, following a unanimous vote by the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) on Thursday.
Yilwatda takes over from Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, who voluntarily stepped down from the chairmanship role citing personal reasons. The party has widely praised Ganduje’s service and wished him well in future endeavors.
Professor Yilwatda’s emergence as APC Chairman is seen as a bold step toward reform and renewal within the ruling party. Known for his blend of academic brilliance, humanitarian commitment, and political experience, Yilwatda is poised to inject fresh energy into the APC at both national and grassroots levels.
Born on August 8, 1968, in Dungung, Kanke Local Government Area of Plateau State, Nentawe is the son of the late Reverend Toma Yilwatda. His early life was marked by a deep commitment to education, excellence, and public service.
He holds a first degree from the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, and pursued further studies at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU), where he earned a master’s degree. He later obtained a Ph.D. in Electronic and Computer Engineering from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
Professor Yilwatda’s technical background and data-driven mindset have shaped his political approach, focusing on innovation, youth empowerment, and sustainable development. His appointment as a Resident Electoral Commissioner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in 2017 brought him into the national spotlight for his commitment to transparent democratic processes.
In 2021, Yilwatda ran as the APC gubernatorial candidate in Plateau State, gaining considerable traction and recognition for his articulate campaign and policy-based messaging. During the 2023 general elections, he served as the Coordinator of the Tinubu/Shettima Campaign Organisation in Plateau State, helping secure a strong victory for the party.
Party insiders say his vast knowledge, organizational skill, and calm demeanor were key reasons the NEC rallied behind him. With his new role as APC Chairman, he is expected to focus on rebuilding internal structures, improving youth and women participation in politics, and ensuring the APC remains a dominant political force ahead of the 2027 elections.
Supporters and analysts believe his background in humanitarian affairs and academic excellence uniquely position him to tackle the party’s internal challenges, resolve factional tensions, and improve national cohesion.
As Yilwatda takes the reins of the APC, Nigerians and political stakeholders alike will be watching closely to see how he reshapes the party’s vision and strategy. Will he be the leader to unify and revitalize the APC? Only time will tell, but the expectations are high.