Paragraph 1: A New Era of Leadership for the APC
Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, a distinguished academic and former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, has assumed the mantle of leadership as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC). His election, which took place during the National Executive Council meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, marks a pivotal moment for the ruling party as it navigates the post-2023 election landscape and prepares for the challenges and opportunities ahead. Yilwatda’s ascension to the chairmanship follows the stepping down of former Kano State Governor Abdullahi Ganduje due to health reasons, signifying a transition of power and a renewed focus on party unity and strategic direction.
Paragraph 2: A Vision of Unity and Growth
Upon officially assuming office at the APC national secretariat, Yilwatda articulated a clear vision for the party’s future. He characterized the National Working Committee (NWC) as a team of “mechanics” tasked with “fixing” the party, which he likened to a vehicle requiring maintenance and upgrades. This analogy underscores his commitment to addressing internal challenges and strengthening the party’s operational machinery. He emphasized the importance of collective effort and collaboration among party leaders and members, stressing that unity is paramount to achieving their shared goals. Yilwatda’s message resonated with a call for inclusivity and teamwork, setting the tone for a more cohesive and collaborative approach to party governance.
Paragraph 3: Ambitious Goals and Confident Predictions
Yilwatda’s initial pronouncements as National Chairman revealed his ambitious goals for the APC. He expressed confidence in his ability to transform the party into a source of national pride and celebration, signaling a desire to enhance its public image and appeal. Beyond internal reforms, Yilwatda set his sights on expanding the party’s reach and influence. He declared his intention to attract more governors, senators, and key opposition figures into the APC fold, demonstrating a proactive approach to party-building and political maneuvering. Furthermore, he boldly proclaimed that the 2027 general election is “a done deal for APC,” projecting an aura of unwavering confidence in the party’s electoral prospects.
Paragraph 4: A Track Record of Service and Experience
The APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, highlighted Yilwatda’s extensive experience and qualifications in a statement released following his election. Morka emphasized Yilwatda’s background as a prolific academic, his tenure as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, and his role as the APC governorship candidate in Plateau State during the 2023 gubernatorial elections. He also underscored Yilwatda’s previous positions as Director of Information and Communication Technology at the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, as Resident Electoral Commissioner in Benue State, and as Director-General of the Plateau State Tinubu-Shettima Campaign Organisation. These diverse experiences, according to Morka, equip Yilwatda with the necessary skills and insights to lead the APC effectively.
Paragraph 5: The Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
Yilwatda’s leadership comes at a critical juncture for the APC. The party faces the task of consolidating its gains from the 2023 elections while addressing internal divisions and navigating the complex dynamics of Nigerian politics. The chairman’s call for unity suggests an awareness of the need to bridge internal divides and foster a more cohesive party structure. The ambition to attract new members from other parties indicates a strategic focus on expanding the APC’s base of support and solidifying its position as the dominant political force in the country. However, translating these ambitions into tangible outcomes will require adept political maneuvering and effective engagement with diverse stakeholders.
Paragraph 6: A Look Towards the Future
As Yilwatda embarks on his tenure as National Chairman, the APC stands at a crossroads. His leadership style, strategic decisions, and ability to unite the party will play a crucial role in determining its future trajectory. The challenges ahead are substantial, but so too are the opportunities. Yilwatda’s vision of transforming the APC into a source of national pride and his confident pronouncements about the 2027 elections suggest a leader with a clear sense of purpose and a determination to succeed. The coming years will reveal whether his vision can be realized and whether the APC can maintain its grip on power in the face of evolving political dynamics and a competitive electoral landscape.
