The Digest:
On July 24, 2025, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda was confirmed as the new National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), succeeding Abdullahi Ganduje. Here are seven things to know about him.
- Born on August 8, 1968, in Dungung, Kanke LGA, Plateau State. He is the son of the late Rev. and Mrs. Toma Yilwatda.
- Yilwatda holds a B.Sc. in Electrical/Electronic Engineering from the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi (1992), a Master’s from Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, and a PhD in Digital Systems Engineering from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
- He was a lecturer at the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, and has over 29 years of experience as a consultant for international development partners, the public, and private sectors.
- Yilwatda served as the ICT Director at the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi for 12 years, demonstrating his leadership in technological and academic sectors.
- He served as Resident Electoral Commissioner in Benue State (2017-2021) and was the State Coordinator for the Tinubu/Shettima Campaign Organization during the 2023 elections.
- Yilwatda ran as the APC Governorship Candidate in Plateau State in 2023 and was appointed Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction on October 23, 2024.
- He was appointed APC National Chairman on July 24, 2025, taking over from Abdullahi Ganduje, following his resignation. Yilwatda's vast experience positions him to strengthen the party’s leadership.
