Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has described the appointment of Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda as the new National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a strategic decision that will strengthen unity and stability within the ruling party.
Speaking after Yilwatda’s emergence, Abbas said the former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, who hails from the North-Central zone, represents a unifying figure whose leadership can consolidate the APC’s political dominance.
“Yilwatda’s selection under the guidance of President Tinubu signals cohesion and inclusiveness, especially with a notable politician from the North-Central now at the helm,” the Speaker said.
Yilwatda succeeds Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, who resigned on June 27, 2025, citing health reasons.
Abbas commended the party’s seamless transition and praised President Tinubu for his role in ensuring a smooth and democratic leadership change, noting that such moves will help the APC navigate evolving political challenges.
He charged the new chairman to unite the party’s various organs, caucuses, and structures in preparation for future electoral victories.
“Prof. Yilwatda must work to galvanize all parts of the party and position the APC as a viable and progressive platform capable of sustaining good governance,” Abbas said, adding a prayer for divine guidance in his new role.
Kuye: Yilwatda’s Election Reflects Inclusiveness and National Sensitivity
Also reacting to the development, Ademorin Aliyu Kuye, Chairman of the House Committee on Public Assets, applauded the party for making a strategic and sensitive choice that resonates with the yearnings of the people.
Kuye said the election of Yilwatda, a Christian from Plateau State, reflects both political inclusiveness and the need to balance Nigeria’s diverse representation.
“For a long time, people from the North-Central have been calling for the National Chairmanship of the APC. This choice is a nod to that demand and the principle of fair zoning,” he stated.
He further praised President Tinubu for fostering internal democracy and building the party into what he described as a magnet for opposition politicians.
“Through his economic reforms and political reengineering, Mr President has laid the groundwork for Nigeria’s rebirth. His leadership has drawn in governors, senators, and lawmakers from other parties.”
Kuye urged Yilwatda to build on this momentum to reposition the APC as “the envy of all democrats around the world.”
As preparations for the 2027 elections begin to take shape, the APC appears keen on projecting unity and political balance under its new leadership. Prof. Yilwatda’s tenure is expected to be critical in shaping the party’s next chapter.
