The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, has said President Bola Tinubu remains his biggest political influence, describing the President as one of the finest politicians Nigeria has ever produced.
Yilwatda made the remark on Saturday in Kanke Local Government Area of Plateau State, shortly after he was honoured with a traditional title, Kaeh-rit, which translates to “the good seed of Ampang East.” The title was conferred on him by traditional leaders in recognition of his contributions to community development.
Speaking at the ceremony, the APC chairman said President Tinubu had played a fatherly role in his political journey, noting that much of his progress came from closely studying the President’s leadership style.
“I am learning from the best leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu. Mr President is one of the best politicians anyone can learn from. Since he adopted me as his son, I have learned so much,” Yilwatda said.
He added that his achievements were a reflection of the lessons he had drawn from Tinubu’s political experience.
“If you see me succeeding, it is because I am learning from the very best politician Nigeria has ever produced. I am being taught, and I am learning. I also hope to achieve what he has achieved and become one of the best politicians in the country,” he stated.
As part of his visit, Yilwatda donated ₦10 million, farm seedlings and other agricultural inputs to farmers in Kanke Local Government Area. He said the gesture was aimed at supporting food production, improving livelihoods and complementing President Tinubu’s drive to strengthen food security and reduce poverty nationwide.
The APC chairman also expressed confidence that Plateau State would benefit politically and economically following Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s recent defection to the APC. According to him, having the state government and the ruling party operating on the same political platform would enhance development and policy coordination.
Yilwatda stressed that the APC remains an inclusive party where all members enjoy equal rights, regardless of when they joined.
“In APC, someone who joins today has the same rights as someone who has been in the party for decades. We do not discriminate against our members,” he said.
He dismissed claims by some political parties that only long-standing members are entitled to influence, saying such practices have no place in the APC.
“When a government joins us with its supporters, everyone becomes part of one family working together for the good of Plateau State,” he explained.
According to him, political alignment between the federal, state and local governments would ensure smoother implementation of policies and better delivery of dividends of democracy to the grassroots.
Our correspondent reports that the honour bestowed on Yilwatda in Kanke is the second traditional title he has received within two weeks. Recently, the Tiv Nation in Benue State also conferred a traditional title on him in recognition of his humanitarian efforts and service to society.
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