The All Progressives Congress (APC) has confirmed Professor Nentawe Yilwatda as its National Chairman following a consensus-backed affirmation at the party’s 8th National Convention held in Abuja on Friday.
Delegates at the convention unanimously endorsed all members of the National Working Committee (NWC), who were subsequently sworn in to serve a four-year term.
The reconstituted NWC features key officials such as Deputy National Chairman (North), Ali Dalori; Deputy National Chairman (South), Emma Eneukwu; National Secretary, Surajudeen Basiru; National Financial Secretary, Alhaji Bashir Gumel; and National Legal Adviser, Murtala Kankia, among others.
In his acceptance speech, Yilwatda assured party members that the new leadership team would provide strong direction and remain committed to supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s national development agenda.
“Our mission is clear: together, we will build a pan-African and pan-Nigerian party that is stronger, more transparent, inclusive, disciplined and united than ever before,” he said.
He stressed that internal democracy would be prioritised to ensure that party members across all levels have a voice, while organisational structures would be strengthened to boost stakeholder confidence.
Yilwatda expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his consistent support, noting that the APC’s long-term success is tied to Nigeria’s progress under the administration’s Renewed Hope agenda.
He highlighted ongoing economic reforms aimed at stabilising public finances, expanding infrastructure in transport and energy, and improving social protection programmes for vulnerable citizens, alongside advancements in digital innovation.
“I accept this responsibility with a full appreciation for the weight of history, the expectations of our people, and the urgency of the moment,” he said.
“This is not a ceremonial crown but a duty that carries the trust of millions of our members. From today, the burden of leadership across every ward, state and corner of this nation rests on our shoulders.”
Yilwatda also reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive leadership, expressing optimism that the APC is well positioned to retain power in the 2027 general elections.
