Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, has been announced as the new National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress ( APC) .
Professor Nentawe was announced by the party’s National Executive Committee following an unanimous election held on Thursday .
He succeeds Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, who stepped down recently for personal reasons.
Professor Yilwatda is recognized as a distinguished academic and a visionary leader, deeply committed to humanitarian efforts and poverty alleviation. Born on August 8, 1968, in Dungung, Kanke Local Government Area, he comes from a family dedicated to service, being the son of the late Rev. Toma Yilwatda.
From a young age, he exhibited exceptional intelligence and a strong commitment to excellence. He attended the esteemed Boys’ Secondary School in Gindiri, which set the stage for his lifelong pursuit of knowledge. He earned his first degree from the Federal University of Agriculture in Makurdi, followed by a master’s degree from ATBU in Bauchi, and a doctorate from the University of Nigeria in Nsukka, specializing in Electronic and Computer Engineering.
His academic career included over 26 years at the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, where his dedication led him to become the pioneer Director of ICT. In this capacity, he implemented transformative digital reforms that automated critical institutional processes, earning numerous accolades such as Best Staff of the Year and Best Director of the Year.
Beyond academia, Professor Yilwatda has been instrumental in advancing the digital transformation in Nigeria’s public and private sectors. His consultancy work includes collaborations with multinational organizations and global development partners, including the European Union, UNICEF, the World Bank, and TECHVILE USA.
In 2017, he was appointed as a Resident Electoral Commissioner with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), where he led significant reforms, including amendments to the Electoral Act and the creation of voting frameworks for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and People Living with Disabilities (PWDs). In 2021, he stepped down to focus on public service, running as the gubernatorial candidate for Plateau State under the APC.
Now, as Nigeria’s Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Professor Yilwatda brings a wealth of experience, innovation, and a strong sense of responsibility. His diverse experiences have provided him with an extensive network across government, the private sector, and international development organizations. He stands as a catalyst for change, bridging technology and governance, and offering hope to millions striving for a better future.
