The All Progressives Congress (APC) has unanimously elected Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda as its new National Chairman, following the resignation of Dr Abdullahi Ganduje.
The decision was reached during the party’s National Executive Committee meeting held on Thursday.
Here are 10 key things to know about the new APC helmsman:
- He Replaces Ganduje as APC Chairman
Yilwatda takes over the reins from Dr Abdullahi Ganduje, who resigned his position to attend to what the party described as “crucial private matters.”
- He’s Nigeria’s Current Minister of Humanitarian Affairs
Before his new role as APC Chairman, Yilwatda served as the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, where he led federal efforts to combat poverty and improve the welfare of vulnerable populations.
- He Was Born in Plateau State
Born on August 8, 1968, in Dungung, Kanke Local Government Area of Plateau State, Yilwatda hails from a family steeped in Christian ministry — the son of the late Rev. Toma Yilwatda.
- He Holds a PhD in Electronic and Computer Engineering
An academic to the core, he earned his undergraduate degree from the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, his master’s from ATBU, Bauchi, and his doctorate from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).
- Over 26 Years in Academia
Yilwatda spent more than two decades lecturing and serving at the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi. He rose to become the pioneer Director of ICT, where he spearheaded the university’s digital transformation.
- Consultant to Global Development Bodies
His expertise in digital governance has seen him work with organizations such as the European Union, UNICEF, the World Bank, and TECHVILE USA on various reform and innovation projects.
- Former INEC Commissioner
In 2017, he was appointed as a Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) with INEC. While there, he led key electoral reforms, including policies for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and Persons Living with Disabilities (PWDs).
- APC Governorship Candidate in Plateau
Yilwatda resigned from INEC in 2021 to contest the Plateau State governorship under the APC in the 2023 general elections. He also coordinated the Tinubu/Shettima campaign in the state.
- Member of the Presidential Economic Management Team
Apart from his ministerial and party roles, Yilwatda also serves as a member of the Presidential Economic Management Team and chairs the Euro-African Dialogue on Migration and Development.
- He’s Known for Bridging Tech and Governance.
Yilwatda is widely regarded as a technology-driven reformist and a strong advocate of using innovation to solve governance and humanitarian challenges. His career has consistently bridged academia, public service, and development work.
With his wealth of experience and broad network, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda is expected to bring fresh energy and reform-focused leadership to the APC.
