APC | Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda Is new National Chairman

Nentawe Yilwatda: From Technocrat to APC National Chairman

In a sweeping move that signals both party realignment and a nod to technocratic leadership, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has appointed Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda as its new National Chairman. His emergence was ratified at the National Executive Committee meeting held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, following the resignation of Abdullahi Umar Ganduje due to health concerns.

A Seamless Transition of Power

Professor Yilwatda’s nomination was proposed by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma and seconded by Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abass Tajudeen. With no dissenting voices, the process moved swiftly to his official swearing-in. His appointment sparked celebrations in Jos, Plateau State, highlighting both regional pride and political momentum.

A Rich Blend of Academia and Governance

Born in Dungung, Kanke LGA of Plateau State on August 8, 1968, Yilwatda boasts a robust academic background in engineering:

• B.Eng in Electrical/Electronic Engineering – FUAM, Makurdi
• M.Eng – ATBU Bauchi
• PhD in Electronic & Computer Engineering – UNN

His career has taken him from lecturing and directing ICT at universities, to advising major global agencies like the World Bank, UNICEF, and the EU. As a reformer, he spearheaded Nigeria’s first Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS) and was listed among Africa’s Top 50 Digital Economy Leaders.

Bridging Technology and Politics

Yilwatda's foray into public service began with his role as INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner in Benue State from 2017 to 2021. His tenure was marked by inclusivity initiatives, particularly for internally displaced persons and voters with disabilities.

In 2023, he ran for Governor of Plateau State under the APC banner and, despite narrowly losing to the PDP’s Caleb Mutfwang, he gained recognition as a disciplined and tech-savvy politician. His appointment as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs in 2024 further cemented his reputation for efficient, people-focused governance.

Profile Summary

Professor Nentawe Yilwatda has been unanimously elected as the National Chairman of Nigeria’s ruling party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), replacing Abdullahi Umar Ganduje who resigned due to health issues.

Background & Education

·       Born August 8, 1968, in Dungung, Plateau State.

·       Studied Electronic and Computer Engineering.

·       Holds degrees from the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, ATBU Bauchi, and a Ph.D. from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

Academic & Tech Contributions

·       Served over 26 years at his alma mater, Makurdi.

·       Pioneer Director of ICT, known for digital transformation efforts.

·       Honored with awards for his work in academia.

Governance & Public Service

·       Former Resident Electoral Commissioner at INEC, driving electoral reforms.

·       APC gubernatorial candidate for Plateau in 2023.

·       Coordinator for Tinubu/Shettima Campaign Organization in Plateau State.

Humanitarian & Global Roles

·       Current Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction.

·       Member of the Presidential Economic Management Team.

·       Chairman of the Euro-African Dialogue on Migration and Development.

Prof. Yilwatda is recognized as a change-maker, blending technology and governance to advance sustainable development, with a focus on aiding Nigeria’s most vulnerable populations.

Personal Note

Away from politics, Yilwatda is a family man. His calm demeanor and reputation for integrity have won him admirers across both party lines and professional circles.