Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda Takes Helm as APC National Chairman

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has appointed Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda as its new National Chairman, marking a notable shift in leadership within Nigeria’s ruling party. This appointment was confirmed on October 11, 2023, during a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held in Abuja, where Yilwatda was sworn in immediately.

Yilwatda takes over from Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, who resigned amid ongoing discussions regarding the party’s future strategies and leadership structure in anticipation of the 2027 general elections. As a seasoned academic and digital systems expert, Yilwatda brings a wealth of experience to the role. He previously served as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction under President Bola Tinubu since October 2024.

Born on August 8, 1968, in Dungung in Kanke Local Government Area of Plateau State, Yilwatda has a rich background in academia and politics. Prior to his ministerial role, he was a lecturer and ICT Director at the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi. His political career gained traction when he won the APC ticket for the Plateau State governorship race in 2022, although he narrowly lost the 2023 general election to the People’s Democratic Party’s Caleb Mutfwang.

During his tenure as minister, Yilwatda focused on emergency relief interventions and poverty reduction. He was recognized as one of Nigeria’s top 50 most influential leaders in the digital economy by IT Edge News Africa in 2024, highlighting his dedication to technology-driven policies and youth empowerment initiatives.

Yilwatda’s acceptance speech emphasized his commitment to fostering unity within the APC. “It is a privilege to serve this party that has shaped Nigeria’s democratic journey,” he stated. He expressed his dedication to ensuring the party remains inclusive and representative of all Nigerians.

The party’s decision to elevate Yilwatda is viewed as an effort to inject fresh energy and attract younger, technocratic leaders in preparation for the upcoming electoral cycle. Political analysts suggest that his data-driven approach and reputation for integrity will be crucial in stabilizing the APC amid internal divisions and pressures from opposition parties.

Despite his accomplishments, Yilwatda’s ministerial performance has faced criticism. In June 2025, the North-Central APC Forum criticized him for inadequate responses to humanitarian crises in Plateau State, alleging that his ministry neglected several communities affected by violence and displacement. These criticisms were further linked to the APC’s loss in the 2023 Plateau governorship election.

In response, Yilwatda defended his ministry’s transparency and accountability, with supporters emphasizing his technocratic background as an asset in tackling the nation’s complex challenges. His appointment is perceived as a strategic move to consolidate APC’s influence in the politically significant North-Central region, which has become increasingly competitive.

As he transitions into this new role, Yilwatda is expected to resign from his ministerial position in accordance with party and constitutional regulations. A formal handover at the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs is anticipated shortly.

With high expectations surrounding Yilwatda’s leadership, the APC looks to adopt a more inclusive and reform-oriented approach in governance, party operations, and political mobilization as it prepares for the challenges of the coming years.