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  • I’m on a mission to reposition party, says APC’s new chair

    I’m on a mission to reposition party, says APC’s new chair

    Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda yesterday took the baton as the 7th National Chairman of the 11-year-old All Progressives Congress (APC) – the ruling party since defeating the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2015.

    Yilwatda, an engineering professors, replaced Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, immediate past governor of Kano State.

    Before his election during the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the party at the Conference Centre of the Aso Villa, Yilwatda, 56, was Minister of Humanitarian Affaris, Disaster Management and Poverty Alleviation.

    Yilwatda  said: “I pledge without hesitation that I will work with everybody in the party, unite the party, build the party, expand the party with you as the focus and the building block and the support I will require to drive the party as needed by all of us.

    “I accept this mandate with gratitude and a complete sense of responsibility, determined to work with all of you to fulfil the dreams of Nigerians who have reposed their hope in the Renewed Hope Agenda.”

    Yilwatda, who was the APC standard bearer in the 2023 governorship poll in Plateau State  said the task ahead requires collective effort.

    “We are all mechanics of this vehicle—the APC—and together, we will fix it and drive it to our destination,” he declared.

    He thanked the party’s leadership, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, governors, members of the National Assembly and National Executive Committee (NEC) members for what he called “a great responsibility at a pivotal time.”

    His choice to lead the APC followed a consensus nomination moved by the Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF)/Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma.

    The governor praised the outgoing leadership, particularly former Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje and emphasized the need for continuity and discipline.

    He said: “As we turn this page, it is imperative that we quickly move to nominate a capable and unifying replacement – someone who can build on the foundation laid and help reposition the party to its rightful place of pride in Nigeria’s democratic history,” Uzodimma said as he formally nominated Yilwatda.

    The motion was seconded by House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.

    In a series of leadership adjustments, Uzodimma also proposed that the National Legal Adviser’s role be reassigned from Northcentral to the Northwest.

    Murtala Kankia, from Katsina State, was nominated for the role, why Legal Adviser Prof Karim Kana was nominated to assume the position of Deputy National Secretary.

    The motion also included the extension of tenure for all ward and local government executives of the APC until December 31. They proposals were endorsed unanimously by NEC members.

    Uzodimma commended the party’s digital reforms, particularly the ongoing membership e-registration, which he described as “a vital step towards deepening internal democracy and improving data-driven planning.”

    Read Also: North-Central forum hails Tinubu’s leadership over Yilwatda’s emergence as APC chairman

    He also lauded President Tinubu’s governance style, saying the country was experiencing “irreversible progress” under his leadership.

    “Under your administration, we have recalibrated the oil subsystems, unified the forex system, and implemented bold fiscal reforms that have restored investor confidence in Nigeria,” he said.

    The governor condemned what he called “irresponsible conduct” by certain political actors operating under the guise of opposition.

    “As progressives, we must remain focused, united, and responsible to the young men and women of Nigeria who have placed their hope in us,” Uzodimma said.

    Deputy Chairman North Bukar Dalori, who acted as chairman since Ganduje’s resignation until yesterday, said the NEC meeting was convened for the purpose of replacing Dr. Ganduje.

    He commended President Tinubu and the Progressive Governors for their strategic intervention during the transition period.

    The NEC is the second highest decision making organ after the convention. In between conventions, the NEC takes import decision, such as the replacement of National Chairman after resignation.

    Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo paid a heartfelt tribute to the late President President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a leader who proved that integrity and public service can co-exist.

    Osinbajo said: “In his many years in public service, he (Buhari) proved that you can serve with honesty. He pursued his rights in court, lost three times and only won on the fourth attempt. That is a mark of someone who believed in the rule of law and democracy.”

    Describing Buhari as a “converted democrat,” Osinbajo said his legacy would remain a lasting example of principled leadership in Nigeria’s political history.

    Also at the meeting were Vice President Kashim Shettima; Senate President Godswill Akpabio; Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin and Deputy House of Representatives Speaker Benjamin Kalu.

    Kwara State Governor, who doubles as Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq led other PGF governors to the meeting.

  • The man Yilwatda

    The man Yilwatda

    Born on August 8, 1968, in Dungung, Kanke Local Government Area of Plateau State, Prof. Yilwatda is an accomplished academic, technocrat, and politician. He hails from a Christian family, the son of the late Rev. Toma Yilwatda, and is widely regarded for his intellect, integrity, and community development efforts.

    He obtained his first degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering from the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi (1992), a master’s degree in Engineering from ATBU, Bauchi, and a PhD in Digital Systems Engineering from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. He is a registered engineer with COREN and a member of many engineering bodies, including the IEEE and the Nigerian Society of Engineers.

    Prof. Yilwatda began his academic career at Plateau State Polytechnic in 1995 before joining the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, where he spent over 26 years as a lecturer, department head, and pioneer Director of ICT. His innovations in digital reform earned him multiple accolades, including Best Staff of the Year and Best Director of the Year.

    In 2017, Prof. Yilwatda was appointed Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) by President Muhammadu Buhari, where he served in Benue State and later supervised elections in states like Rivers, Anambra, Osun, and Cross River. His tenure at INEC saw critical reforms, including voting frameworks for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and People Living with Disabilities (PWDs).

    In 2021, he resigned from INEC to contest the Plateau State governorship election on the platform of the APC during the last general election. Although unsuccessful, his campaign helped build a robust political network across the state. During the same election cycle, he also served as Coordinator of the Tinubu/Shettima Campaign in Plateau State.

    Read Also: Yilwatda pledges unity, expansion as new APC National Chairman

    In 2023, President Tinubu appointed him as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, a role in which he has been widely praised for strategic reforms, innovation, and dedication to vulnerable populations.

    He was a member of the Presidential Economic Management Team and Chairman of the Euro-African Dialogue on Migration and Development.

    Prof. Yilwatda’s appointment satisfies the APC’s internal zoning arrangement, which allocates the national chairmanship to the North-Central region, a zone comprising Benue, Kwara, Kogi, Nasarawa, Niger, and Plateau States. His Christian faith also brings religious balance to the party’s leadership.

    The announcement was met with jubilation, especially in the Plateau Central Senatorial District, his home base. The Plateau APC Publicity Secretary, Shittu Bamayi, described his emergence as a “watershed moment” and a “milestone in the political history of Plateau State”, following in the legacy of Chief Solomon Lar.

    Lar was a pioneer national chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Second Republic governor of the state.

    Can he lead the APC to victory in 2027?

    Prof. Yilwatda’s leadership style, grounded in technocratic efficiency, intellectual discipline, and social empathy, positions him as a refreshing face for the APC. He is not a typical Nigerian politician, and that may be exactly what the APC needs as it recalibrates for 2027. His blend of academic intelligence, ethical leadership, policy depth, and grassroots outreach gives him a unique edge to revitalise the ruling party’s image.

    He is well-positioned to reorganise the APC, unite its factions, and reconnect with the electorate.

    If he can manage internal party cohesion, harness digital innovation for political mobilisation, and help President Tinubu deliver tangible results before 2027, then Prof. Yilwatda could indeed be the catalyst the APC needs to secure another term in office.

  • Yilwatda pledges unity, expansion as new APC National Chairman

    Yilwatda pledges unity, expansion as new APC National Chairman

    Newly elected National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Professor Nentawe Yilwatda has pledged to work with all stakeholders to unite, strengthen and expand the ruling party. 

    Yilwatda gave the assurance during his acceptance speech at the 14th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the APC, held at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja.

    “I pledge without hesitation that I will work with everybody in the party, unite the party, build the party, expand the party—with you as the focus and the building block and the support I will require to drive the party as needed by all of us. I accept this mandate with gratitude and a complete sense of responsibility, determined to work with all of you to fulfil the dreams of Nigerians who have reposed their hope in the Renewed Hope Agenda,” Yilwatda said.

    Yilwatda, the APC’s 2023 governorship candidate in Plateau State and Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, said the task ahead requires collective effort. 

    “We are all mechanics of this vehicle—the APC—and together, we will fix it and drive it to our destination,” he declared.

    He thanked the party’s leadership, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, governors, members of the National Assembly, and NEC members, for what he called “a great responsibility at a pivotal time.”

    His emergence followed a consensus nomination moved by the Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum and Imo Governor Hope Uzodinma. 

    Uzodinma praised the outgoing leadership, particularly former Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, and emphasised the need for continuity and discipline.

    “As we turn this page, it is imperative that we quickly move to nominate a capable and unifying replacement—someone who can build on the foundation laid and help reposition the party to its rightful place of pride in Nigeria’s democratic history,” Uzodinma said while formally nominating Yilwatda.

    The motion was seconded by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas. In a series of leadership adjustments, Uzodinma also proposed that the National Legal Adviser role be reassigned from North Central to North West with Barrister Murtala from Katsina State nominated for the role. 

    Read Also: Five lucrative ways Nigerians can make money on TikTok

    Professor Karim Kana, the current Legal Adviser, was nominated to assume the position of Deputy National Secretary. 

    The motion also included the extension of tenure for all ward and local government executives of the APC until December 31, 2025, a proposal NEC members later endorsed.

    Acting National Chairman Engr. Bukar Dalori explained that the NEC meeting was convened following Ganduje’s resignation to fill the resulting leadership vacancy. 

    He commended President Tinubu and the Progressive Governors for their strategic intervention during the transition period.

    Born on August 8, 1968, in Dungung, Kanke Local Government Area of Plateau State, Professor Yilwatda comes with a rich blend of academic, governance and technological experience. 

    A graduate of the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, he obtained further degrees from ATBU Bauchi and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, specialising in Electronic and Computer Engineering.

    He spent over 26 years at his alma mater where he served as the pioneer Director of ICT and earned several accolades for innovation and leadership. 

    His career spans partnerships with global development institutions such as the World Bank, European Union, UNICEF, and TECHVILE USA.

    In 2017, he was appointed a Resident Electoral Commissioner at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) where he championed key electoral reforms, including policies for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). 

    He resigned in 2021 to pursue electoral office and later served as the Plateau Coordinator of the Tinubu/Shettima Campaign in 2023.

  • PDP to hold national convention in Ibadan

    PDP to hold national convention in Ibadan

    The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has scheduled its elective National Convention to hold in Ibadan, Oyo State, from Saturday, November 15 to Sunday, November 16, 2025.

    The decision was announced in an 11-point communiqué issued after the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held on Thursday in Abuja.

    Reading the communiqué, PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, disclosed that preparations for the convention would be concluded at the next NEC meeting slated for Monday, August 25, 2025. He added that the party’s National Chairman and National Secretary have been directed to officially notify the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of the planned convention.

    The NEC also approved the membership of both the National Convention Committee and the Zoning Committee to ensure a transparent and credible electoral process.

    According to Ologunagba, the party leadership expressed satisfaction with the resolution of internal disputes, describing it as evidence of PDP’s commitment to unity and dialogue. He reaffirmed that the party remains strong, united, and ready to offer Nigerians a viable alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

    As part of its resolutions, the NEC directed the National Working Committee (NWC) to initiate legal action aimed at reclaiming legislative seats occupied by former PDP members who defected to other political parties.

    “In its determination to preserve all electoral mandates given to our party by Nigerians, NEC directed the NWC to immediately pursue legal means to recover the seats of all serving National and State Assembly members elected on the PDP platform who have since defected.

    READ ALSO; Five lucrative ways Nigerians can make money on TikTok

    “By virtue of Sections 68 (1)(g) and 109 (1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), those defectors have automatically lost their seats, as there is no division or merger involving the PDP,” the communiqué read.

    NEC also expressed concern over reports of some party members aligning with other political parties, and called for renewed loyalty, discipline, and dedication to the PDP’s principles.

    “NEC expressed serious concern and frowns at the reported participation and involvement of some Party members in the activities, meetings and gatherings of another political party. NEC calls on these members to reconsider their actions and show loyalty and commitment as members of the PDP, especially as the law does not permit membership in two political Parties at the same time.

    “NEC reassures such members of the successes recorded so far towards addressing their concerns on issues relating to our Party.

    “NEC restates that the PDP, as the leading opposition Party and platform of choice for all Nigerians, remains open to working with other well-meaning and like-minded citizens in the collective effort to rescue our nation from the stranglehold of the rudderless and insensitive APC administration.

    “NEC reassures of PDP’s belief in Democracy, and its commitment and readiness to be at the forefront in driving the aspiration of Nigerians to oust the APC and install a people-oriented government on the platform of the PDP come 2027.

    “NEC adjourned and fixed its next (102nd) meeting to   Monday, 25th August, 2025,” the PDP leaders stated.

    Party leaders at the well-attended PDP NEC meeting include the governors of Ogun, Zamfara, Plateau, Taraba, Osun, Adamawa and Bauchi states, members of the PDP National Working Committee, Board of Trustees, as well as others such as Chief Bode George, Chief Eddy Olafeso, Labaran Maku, Seriake Dickson, Olagunsoye Oyinlola and Senator Bukola Saraki.

  • Hulk Hogan, wrestling icon, dies at 71

    Hulk Hogan, wrestling icon, dies at 71

    The world of professional wrestling has lost one of its most charismatic and enduring figures. Hulk Hogan, the larger-than-life legend who helped transform wrestling into a global spectacle, has died.

    He was 71.

    His death was confirmed on Wednesday by his representatives. While full details were still emerging at press time, the news has triggered a wave of tributes from fans, wrestling stars and entertainers across the world.

    Born Terry Gene Bollea on August 11, 1953, Hogan became a household name in the 1980s as the face of the World Wrestling Federation, now known as WWE. With his signature moustache, colourful bandanas and booming presence, Hogan was the towering face of the wrestling boom that swept through American entertainment.

    He headlined some of the biggest events in wrestling history, including multiple editions of WrestleMania, and became a central figure in the sport’s rise to global fame under Vince McMahon’s WWE Empire. His battles with stars like André the Giant, Randy Savage and The Ultimate Warrior remain part of wrestling folklore.

    Outside the ring, Hogan featured in several movies and television shows, expanding his appeal beyond the wrestling audience. His famous catchphrase, “Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?” became an anthem for fans who grew up during the golden years of professional wrestling.

    READ ALSO; Five lucrative ways Nigerians can make money on TikTok

    Though his life was not without controversies, including legal disputes and personal challenges, his contributions to wrestling and sports entertainment remain unmatched.

    Hogan was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005 and made several return appearances in later years to roaring applause from old and new fans alike.

    He is survived by his children, Brooke and Nick Bollea.

    Funeral arrangements were yet to be announced as of press time.

  • BREAKING: First Holdco’s N323b transaction complied with all rules, says SEC

    BREAKING: First Holdco’s N323b transaction complied with all rules, says SEC

    Nigeria’s apex capital market regulator, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), has said the N323 billion buyout deals involving two longstanding shareholders of First Holdco and an investment firm fully complied with all rules and regulations.

    Against the background of a media report insinuating a further enquiry by the SEC, the Commission stated that it had granted “no objection” to the transaction after it was satisfied that the transaction complied with all applicable requirements.

    According to the SEC, in line with extant laws and SEC regulations, the Commission granted a “no objection” to the transaction after due consideration and in full compliance with applicable requirements.

    “There was no subsequent request for additional information from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) following the conclusion of the transaction.

    “It is important to note that the Commission’s correspondence with the operators involved was not a query. Rather, it was an automated compliance mechanism designed to promote transparency and ensure proper conclusion of large transactions within the market,” the SEC stated.

    In a statement signed by Head, External Relations, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Mrs Efe Ebelo, the Commission assured that it remains firmly committed to its mandate of regulating a fair, orderly, and efficient market; protecting investors; and fostering capital formation in Nigeria.

    READ ALSO; ​FRSC Mobile App: How to apply for licence renewal, vehicle verification, others

    The N323 billion buyout deals involved longstanding shareholder and former chairman, Oba Otudeko and another major shareholder and director, Tunde Hassan-Odukale. The transaction was also approved by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

    In a regulatory filing at the Nigerian Exchange (NGX), the board of First Holdco confirmed that Otudeko and Hassan-Odukale sold their shares to RC Investment Management.

    A search indicated RC Investment Management is a subsidiary of Renaissance Capital. It was incorporated in May 2024 with Sule Samuel Babatunde, the Chief Executive Officer of Renaissance Capital, holding the 100 per cent equity stake as a person with significant control.

    The Nation had reported that a total of 10.43 billion ordinary shares of First Holdco valued at N323.33 billion were swapped in off-market, negotiated deals at the NGX on Wednesday, July 16, 2025. The transactions were crossed in 17 deals at N31 per share.

    In a regulatory filing at the NGX Regulation (NGX Regco), which oversees activities at the NGX, the board of First Holdco, in a statement signed by Company Secretary, Adewale Arogundade, said the transaction did not involve the chairman of the group, Femi Otedola or any government officials and agencies, as previously reported by some media, not The Nation.

    According to the group, the transactions were between Otudeko’s Barbican Capital and Affiliates and Hassan-Odukale’s Leadway Group and affiliates as seller and RC Investment Management Limited as buyer.

    The banking group, in another filing, also confirmed the sale of shares by Barbican Capital, whose controlling stake resides with the Otudekos.

    A breakdown of the transaction obtained yesterday indicated that RC Investment Management acquired about 7.787 billion shares worth N241.4 billion from Otudekos and 2.647 billion shares worth N82 billion from Hassan-Odukales.

    The transaction represented about 25 per cent majority stake in the group, which currently has 41.87 billion outstanding shares.

    Also, the office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) had denied any involvement of the government in the transaction, contrary to certain reports by some media houses.

    In a statement signed by S A to the President on Communication and Publicity, Office of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Kamarudeen Ogundele, the AGF denied any federal government involvement in the First Holdco share acquisition.

    “We are compelled to respond to a publication by ThisDay Newspaper of July 17, 2025, and Arise TV, suggesting that 25 per cent of First Bank Holdings (First Holdco) shares were transferred to the Federal Government of Nigeria’s (FGN) trustee.

    “The report is inaccurate, misleading, resentful and malicious.

    “Neither the Federal Government of Nigeria nor the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice participated in acquiring the shares in question.

    “The Office of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice debunks this falsehood to prevent confusion or misconceptions about First Holdco’s ownership and governance.

    “The circumstances surrounding the shareholding structure are distinct from any government involvement,” Ogundele stated.

    He urged the media to exercise restraint, professionalism, and due diligence in carrying out their duties to avoid violating the law.

    He said, “We assure the public of continuous commitment to the promotion of the Rule of Law, Justice, equity, accountability, transparency and service to the nation by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”

  • BREAKING: Yilwatda emerges APC national chairman

    BREAKING: Yilwatda emerges APC national chairman

    The minister of humanitarian affairs and poverty reduction, Nentawe Yilwatda, has been elected as the national chairman of the All Progressive Congress (APC).

    Yilwatda’s emergence was formally announced on Thursday during the national executive committee (NEC) meeting of the APC in Abuja, where party leaders gathered to chart a new direction ahead of the 2027 general election.

    Details shortly…

  • BREAKING: Tinubu participates in APC NEC meeting

    BREAKING: Tinubu participates in APC NEC meeting

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is currently participating in the 14th National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) at the State House in Abuja.

    The meeting, which commenced at about 2:10 pm, was attended by members of the party’s NEC, including governors, former governors, leadership of the National Assembly and some other ranking and foundation members of the party.

    Besides President Tinubu, other participants at the ongoing meeting include Vice President Kashim Shettima; President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio; Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon Tajudeen Abbas; and the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon Benjamin Kalu.

    Read Also: Tinubu hosts Ekiti leaders, meets Segun Oni amid talks on political return

    Also participating are the Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF) and governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma; Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) and governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, and other governors

    Also in attendance are former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and the acting National Chairman, Ali Bukar Dalori.

    The meeting, according to its agenda, made available to attendees, will swear in a new national chairman.

    Details shortly…

  • JUST IN: Senate adjourns plenary to September 23

    JUST IN: Senate adjourns plenary to September 23

    The Senate on Thursday adjourned plenary sessions till Tuesday, September 23, 2025.

    The resolution of the Senate followed its adoption of a motion moved by the Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele.

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio, in his remarks after the motion was carried, said senators are expected to use the break period to conduct oversight functions.

    Read Also: Senate committee canvasses compliance with local content requirements

    He said each committee would be expected to submit a report on its oversight activities to the Senate upon resumption.

    He said that APC Senators are also expected to attend the National Executive Committee meeting of the party at the Villa beginning from 2 pm.

  • JUST IN: House of Reps begins two-month annual recess

    JUST IN: House of Reps begins two-month annual recess

    The House of Representatives has commenced its annual recess, adjourning legislative activities till September 23.

    The motion to proceed on the two-month break was moved, seconded, and unanimously adopted by members during plenary.

    Speaker Abbas Tajudeen announced the decision during the closing session on Wednesday, July 23, at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja.

    Read Also: Senators, Reps laud Buhari’s patriotism at tributes session

    This customary break, a regular feature of the National Assembly’s legislative calendar, allows lawmakers to dedicate time to constituency activities, oversight functions, and personal engagements.

    Speaker Abbas encouraged members to utilise the period to reconnect with their constituents, address local concerns, and monitor ongoing federal projects in their respective areas.

    The adjournment follows a legislative session.