The All Progressives Congress (APC) has a new National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, who was sworn into office on July 24, 2025. Yilwatda's emergence follows the resignation of former chairman, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, who stepped down due to health-related concerns.
Background of Professor Yilwatda
Yilwatda is a technocrat-turned-politician with a strong background in engineering, digital governance, and public administration. He served as the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction before his appointment as APC National Chairman. Born on August 8, 1968, in Plateau State, Yilwatda has a distinguished academic career, holding degrees in Electrical/Electronic Engineering and Digital Systems Engineering ¹.
How Yilwatda Emerged as APC National Chairman
Yilwatda's nomination was moved by Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, who chairs the Progressive Governors' Forum, and seconded by Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas. The APC's National Executive Committee (NEC) unanimously approved his appointment in a consensus decision aimed at uniting the party ahead of key political activities ² ³.
Challenges Ahead
As the new APC National Chairman, Yilwatda faces significant challenges, including:
- *Unifying the Party*: Yilwatda needs to bridge internal divisions and ensure cohesion within the party.
- *Preparing for Elections*: The APC must prepare for upcoming electoral contests, including off-cycle governorship elections in Kogi, Edo, and Ondo states.
- *Sustaining Public Trust*: Yilwatda's leadership will be crucial in maintaining public trust and confidence in the APC.
Yilwatda's Vision for APC
In his acceptance remarks, Yilwatda pledged to:
- *Deepen Internal Democracy*: Promote unity and mutual respect among party members.
- *Take Tough Decisions*: Make decisions that benefit the party, while maintaining a gentle tone and incorporating teamwork.
- *Follow President Tinubu's Footsteps*: Emulate President Bola Tinubu's leadership style, characterized by calmness, gentleness, and decisive action ⁴ ⁵.
