Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, newly elected National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has confidently declared the 2027 general elections a “done deal” for the ruling party.
Yilwatda made the bold assertion on Thursday at the APC national secretariat in Abuja, where he officially took over leadership following his election at the party’s National Executive Council meeting held at the Presidential Villa.
Describing the APC as a vehicle in need of repair, the former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management likened the National Working Committee (NWC) to mechanics tasked with restoring the party’s strength and direction.
“All of us here, especially the NWC, are the mechanics. The party is the vehicle—we will fix it, drive it, and get it to the destination we desire,” Yilwatda declared. “Together, we will make the APC the pride and joy of the nation.”
He succeeds Abdullahi Ganduje, who stepped down from the position due to health reasons. Calling for unity among party members, Yilwatda emphasized the importance of rebuilding the party and broadening its appeal.
He thanked Nigerians for their ongoing support and pledged to welcome new members into the APC, predicting significant defections from opposition parties.
“We expect to receive more governors, senators, National Assembly members, and local government leaders into our fold. By God’s grace, 2027 is a done deal,” he stated.
In a statement following Yilwatda’s inauguration, APC National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka commended the chairman’s credentials, citing his robust academic and political background.
“Prof. Yilwatda brings a blend of technical, administrative, and political experience,” Morka noted, highlighting his roles as Director of ICT at the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi; Resident Electoral Commissioner in Benue (2017–2021); and Director-General of the Plateau State Tinubu-Shettima Campaign Organisation in 2023.
The APC leadership expressed confidence that Yilwatda’s leadership would usher in a new era of revitalization and national influence for the party.