New APC Chairman Yilwatda Vows to Unite Party, Woo Opposition Members

Newly appointed National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, has pledged to unite the ruling party and actively engage in expanding its base by reaching out to members of the opposition. Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Thursday, Yilwatda stated that his leadership would focus on consolidation and strategic growth. “My job is to unite the party and expand it. We already have 23 governors and over 70 National Assembly members, we’re just getting started” he said.

Yilwatda’s appointment was ratified earlier on Thursday, following his nomination by Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressives Governors’ Forum, Hope Uzodimma, and seconded by Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas. Until his elevation, Yilwatda served as the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction. He emphasized that the party’s founding fathers, former national chairmen, and seasoned political figures remain active and available to guide him in his new role. “The starting eleven of the party are still intact, former governors, vice presidents, national leaders, they are all backing me” he added.

When asked if he could make impactful decisions for the APC, Yilwatda responded confidently, pointing to the support of President Bola Tinubu. “That’s exactly what the President and party members expect from me” he said. He described the President’s leadership style as calm but firm, taking bold decisions others shy away from. “Look at his body language, calm and soft-spoken but the direction he’s taking this country requires courage. That’s the energy we’re bringing into the party” he noted.

On the emerging opposition coalition aiming to challenge President Tinubu in 2027, Yilwatda dismissed it as a non-threat. “Zero fears,” he said, adding that APC’s consistent victories in recent by-elections at both local government and national levels are proof of its enduring strength. He welcomed criticism from opponents, noting it provides useful feedback. “Some of their criticism is helping me to improve party performance. We are using it to map out even stronger strategies,” he stated.

Addressing speculations about the possible return of former Kano State governor and 2023 NNPP presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, to the APC, Yilwatda kept the door open. “Our doors are open to all former members,” he said. “With time, people will begin to recognize the value of our manifesto, the performance of this government, and the bold decisions the President is taking. They will come back when the time is right,” he concluded.