ABUJA, Nigeria — The All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially appointed Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda, the current Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, as the new National Chairman of the ruling party. The announcement was made following the party’s high-level National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held on Thursday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Dr. Yilwatda’s nomination was presented by Governor Hope Uzodimma, the Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, and was seconded by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen. The motion received unanimous support through a voice vote, signaling strong unity among party leaders.
What Happened at the Meeting?
This was the 14th NEC meeting and it brought together top APC leaders, governors, senators, and lawmakers from across Nigeria. The party used the opportunity to:
- Review its internal structure,
- Strengthen unity,
- Strategize for upcoming elections, including the 2025 Anambra governorship election and several bye-elections,
- And begin early preparations for the 2027 general elections.
Delta State’s Delegation
Representing Delta State at the meeting was Senator Ned Munir Nwoko (Delta North), who was among the 21 senators accredited to participate. He joined other prominent Delta political figures such as:
- Governor Sheriff Oborevwori
- Former Deputy Senate President, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege
- APC State Chairman, Elder Omeni Sobotie
- APC Chieftain, Stella Okotete
Their participation showed that Delta APC leaders remain active in national decision-making.
Organizing Secretary’s Report
The party’s National Organizing Secretary, Sulaiman Muhammad Argungu, delivered what he described as a “comprehensive compendium” — a detailed document designed to guide the party’s future operations and policies. The report was well-received by NEC members and seen as a useful roadmap for building a stronger, more organized APC.
Political Analysis: Why It Matters
Political analysts say the APC is realigning early to avoid mistakes from past elections. The presence of serving senators, governors, and federal lawmakers suggests the party is serious about staying united and strengthening its structure before the next major elections.
Who Is Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda?
Dr. Yilwatda is the current Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction. He is known for his academic background and experience in governance. Now, as National Chairman of the APC, he is expected to:
- Introduce fresh ideas,
- Build stronger relationships within the party,
- And lead the APC into critical elections in the coming months.
List of the 21 Accredited Senators at the NEC Meeting:
- Barau I. Jibrin – Deputy Senate President
- Michael Opeyemi Bamidele – Senate Majority Leader
- Mohammed Tahir Monguno – Senate Chief Whip
- Oyelola Yisa Ashiru – Deputy Majority Leader
- Nwebonyi Onyeka – Deputy Chief Whip
- Mustapha Salihu
- Sani Bello Abubakar
- Ibrahim Bomai
- Jim Kuta
- Aliyu Wamako
- Abdul’aziz Yar’adua
- Ned Munir Nwoko
- Patrick Ndubueze Chuwuba
- Kenneth Eze
- Fadahunsi Francis Adenigba
- Adams Oshiomhole
- Abdulfatai Buhari
- Asuquo Ekpenyong
- Adeola Solomon Olamilekan
- Etang Williams Jonah
