The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda has been confirmed as the party’s new National Chairman, succeeding former chairman Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, who stepped down citing health reasons.
Yilwatda, 56, currently serves as Nigeria’s Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development. Previously, he was a respected academic—an engineering lecturer at the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi—and also served as an Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Resident Electoral Commissioner between 2017 and 2021 .
He hails from Plateau State in North‑Central Nigeria, aligning with the APC’s zoning policy, which designates the chairmanship to that region. His Christian background was reportedly a factor in fostering religious inclusivity at the party’s helm, balancing a leadership team that already includes Muslim President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima .
Yilwatda was chosen through a consensus decision during a late-night meeting in Abuja involving President Bola Tinubu and APC governors. The party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) is expected to officially ratify the nomination today .
Commentators have noted that Yilwatda’s clean track record—free from scandal—and his blend of academic, electoral and ministerial experience position him as a fresh face capable of uniting the party and restoring its public image ahead of future electoral contests .
Key highlights:
Resignation: Dr. Ganduje resigned on health grounds, triggering the leadership transition.
Zoning & Balance: The new chairmanship aligns with APC zoning rules and aims for religious balance.
Experience: Yilwatda brings academic, electoral, and ministerial expertise.
Next steps: Final approval expected at today’s NEC meeting.
