Tinubu’s Minister Emerges as APC’s New National Chairman

Tinubu’s Minister Emerges as APC’s New National Chairman

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has named Professor Nentawe Yilwatda as its new national chairman, following the resignation of Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, who stepped down citing health concerns. The decision was reached after a late-night meeting in Abuja between President Bola Tinubu and APC governors, paving the way for the party’s National Executive Committee to ratify the appointment.

Yilwatda, who currently serves as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, brings a diverse background to the role, combining academic, bureaucratic, and political experience. A former engineering lecturer at the Federal University of Agriculture in Makurdi, he also served as a Resident Electoral Commissioner with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), overseeing elections in multiple states from 2017 to 2021.

Originally from Plateau State, the 56-year-old was the APC’s gubernatorial candidate in the 2023 elections. Although he lost to the PDP candidate, his swift political rise and subsequent ministerial appointment reflect growing confidence in his leadership within the party. His nomination also aligns with the APC’s zoning arrangement, which allots the chairmanship to the North-Central region.

Party insiders say his Christian background played a role in his selection, with the leadership aiming to present a more inclusive image given that both the president and vice president are Muslims. According to senior APC figures, Yilwatda is seen as a fresh face—young, well-educated, and free of political baggage—qualities the party hopes will help restore credibility and unity.

His appointment comes at a critical time, as the APC looks to rebuild its public image, address internal divisions, and prepare for future elections. Party stakeholders are optimistic that Yilwatda’s leadership will signal a new direction and reinvigorate the party’s base across key regions.