By Rafiyat Sadiq
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday congratulated Professor Nentawe Yilwatda on his emergence as the new National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The congratulatory message was delivered during the 14th meeting of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Yilwatda, who currently serves as Nigeria’s Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, was sworn in on Thursday during the NEC meeting. His appointment follows the resignation of his predecessor, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, on July 27.
Addressing party leaders and government officials present, President Tinubu expressed gratitude to members of the APC for their continued support and commitment to the progressive vision of the party.
He thanked the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima; Senate President Godswill Akpabio; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas; state governors; National Assembly members and other stakeholders for their unity and loyalty.
In his remarks, the president also paid tribute to former president Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on July 13, and two other elder statesmen, Alhaji Aminu Dantata and Oba Adesoji Tadeniawo Aderemi, recognising their lifelong contributions to national development.
He offered prayers for the repose of their souls.
READ ALSO: APC Appoints Yilwatda As National Chairman
President Tinubu also congratulated and welcomed their new members, specifically the governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori, and the governor of Akwa Ibom State, Umo Eno.
“Our doors are still open, and we should embrace them wholeheartedly,” he said
President Tinubu noted that the economy had begun to stabilise under his administration, citing a 43% rise in national revenue as evidence of progress, adding that the administration’s “Renewed Hope” agenda was on course.
He urged the new chairman and other APC members to remain committed to party unity and openness, noting that more appointments would be made and that provisions had been made for inclusive participation in party congresses.
“I thank the outgoing chairman for his service, and I welcome Professor Yilwatda with confidence. He has accepted a great responsibility and must now lead the party with fairness and vision,” Tinubu said.
The President also endorsed the plan for the new chairman to establish a committee that will reach out to members across states, ensuring smooth party registration and participation.
“We must keep our doors open to those who wish to join us. The APC must remain a home for all progressives,” he added.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
