The newly appointed National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, has pledged to unite the ruling party and actively work to attract members from opposition parties.
Yilwatda, who previously served as the Minister of Humanitarian Services and Poverty Alleviation, was appointed chairman on Thursday following his nomination by the Chairman of the Progressives Governors’ Forum and Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma. His nomination was seconded by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas.
Speaking during an interview on Politics Today with Channels Television, Yilwatda stated that despite the APC’s strong presence—with 23 governors and 70 lawmakers in the National Assembly—his mission is to expand the party further.
“My job is to unite and grow the party. We already have 23 governors and counting, but we’re aiming for more. We’ll do the legwork to bring them in,” he said.
He emphasized that he has the support and guidance of the party’s founding members, former chairmen, and ex-governors, which he believes will be crucial to his leadership success.
“Luckily, I have a wealth of experience around me—from former national chairmen and governors to my immediate predecessor, Abdullahi Ganduje. Even some of our founding leaders are still active. It’s like having the full starting eleven still in play,” he remarked.
When asked if he was confident in his ability to make sound decisions for the party, the former minister replied, “Absolutely. That’s exactly what the President and our members expect from me.”
He praised President Bola Tinubu’s leadership style, describing him as calm and thoughtful, yet bold in making difficult decisions. “Just observe the President—soft-spoken and composed—but look at the bold direction he’s taking the country.”
Yilwatda also dismissed concerns about a new opposition coalition formed to challenge President Tinubu in the 2027 elections, stating he had “zero fears” about its effectiveness.
“There’s no real opposition right now. The APC has been winning across all recent by-elections—at local and national levels—often with landslide victories,” he said.
He welcomed constructive criticism from opposition groups, noting that it helps the party refine its strategies and improve performance. “I’ve been watching clips of their critiques, and I’m taking notes. Some of their feedback is helping us shape our strategies and boost performance.”
Commenting on speculations about former Kano State Governor and NNPP presidential candidate Rabiu Kwankwaso possibly returning to the APC, Yilwatda said the party remains open to welcoming former members.
“Our doors are always open. In due time, people will start to appreciate the government’s performance, the party’s agenda, and the tough choices the President has made. Many will find their way back,” he concluded.
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