Yilwatda Assumes Office as APC Chairman, Promises Unity

Yilwatda Assumes Office as APC Chairman, Promises Unity

•Party Congratulates New Chair

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

Professor Nentawe Yilwatda has formally assumed office as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), pledging to foster unity within the party, expand its membership, and drive internal reforms through technological innovation.

Speaking shortly after his inauguration at the APC National Headquarters in Abuja, Yilwatda described his emergence as both “a rare privilege and a burden of trust.”

He expressed gratitude to party leaders, members of the National Working Committee (NWC), and supporters across the country.

“I know I am not alone, I have veterans, friends, and partners within the NWC. Together, we will build a stronger party,” he said.

Describing his leadership style, Yilwatda said, “We, the NWC members, are the mechanics. The party is the vehicle. We will fix it, drive it, and ensure it reaches the destination of our collective dreams.”

He outlined his key priorities, including transparency, inclusivity, and the use of digital systems to streamline party operations.

The new Chairman noted that the APC must become more responsive and trusted by Nigerians, both at home and abroad.

“This party must be transparent and trusted by Nigerians both at home and in the diaspora. We’ll ensure every member feels a part of it and that the APC remains a vibrant vehicle for national development,” he said.

He also called for unity across all levels of the party and emphasized the need for openness and expansion.

“Our doors are wide open. We look forward to welcoming more governors, senators, National Assembly members, and grassroots leaders. This is a party for everyone,” Yilwatda declared.

Acknowledging the role of the media, he commended journalists for their efforts in shaping public perception and called for continued truthful and constructive reporting.

“I appreciate the press for giving our party the right image. When you report on Nigeria’s economic growth, improved revenue, and sectoral progress, you uplift the nation. If we damage the image of our party or nation, it affects all of us. Let’s build together,” he said.

The former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs also saluted his predecessor, members of the NWC, the National Assembly, APC governors, and other stakeholders for their support and past collaborations, pledging to work closely with them in his new role.

Meanwhile, the APC has formally congratulated Yilwatda on his election, which took place at the party’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held earlier at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

His election follows the resignation of former Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.

In a congratulatory message signed by APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the party said:

“We welcome and congratulate our National Chairman on his election, and pray God, in His mercies, to grant him wisdom and grace to lead our great Party to greater heights.”

Yilwatda, a seasoned academic and the APC’s 2023 governorship candidate in Plateau State, has held several strategic positions, including Resident Electoral Commissioner in Benue State, Director of ICT at the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, and Director-General of the Tinubu-Shettima Campaign Organization in Plateau State.

He concluded his inaugural remarks with an optimistic outlook: “By God’s grace, the future of the APC is bright. Together, it’s a done deal.”