The recent emergence of Professor Nentawe Yilwatda as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) marks a significant departure from the party’s traditional leadership paradigm.
For the first time, the APC has elected a national chairman who is neither a serving nor a former state governor.
This unprecedented move carries substantial implications for the party’s internal dynamics and its trajectory heading into the 2027 general elections.
Breaking the gubernatorial mold
Historically, the leadership of major political parties in Nigeria, including the APC, has often been dominated by individuals with a gubernatorial background. This trend stems from the significant political and financial clout that former or serving governors wield.
Since inception in 2013, the office of the National Chairman of Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has been an exclusive preserved of former or serving governors. Even those who occupied the position in acting capacity were all members of political “red neck” class.
From the former Osun State governor, Chief Bisi Akande, the interim National Chairman, to Chief John Odigie Oyegun who governed Edo State between 1992 and 1993, and Comrade Adams Aliyu Oshiomole, Edo State governor from 2008 to 2016. Even when a Caretaker Extra-Ordinary Committee was put in place in 2020, the leadership mantle fell on the governor of Yobe State. Hon. Mai Mala Buni.
On the 7th of March 2022 for few days, former Niger State governor Abubakar Sani Bello acted as chairman of the party’s Caretaker Extra-Ordinary Committee. The National Convention of March 26, 2022, produced former Nasarawa State governor, Senator Abdullahi Adamu, as the National Chairman, and by 3rd of August, 2023, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, former Kano State governor, replaced Adamu as National Chairman.
Their extensive networks, experience in managing state structures, and often considerable personal resources have traditionally made them formidable contenders for the top party positions.
But with Yilwatda’s election on the 24th July, 2025 by the party’s second highest decision making organ, the National Executive Committee (NEC), this mold, signalling a potential shift in the APC’s strategic thinking. Even at that, he got close to becoming a governor, having narrowly lost in his bid to govern Plateau state in the last governorship election in the state. He lost by a few thousands to Caleb Mutfwang, the incumbent governor of the state.
As an academic and technocrat with a background as the former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, his ascendance suggests a move towards prioritizing technical expertise and administrative acumen over traditional political muscle.
This could be interpreted as an attempt to project a fresh, more modern, and less politically “baggage-laden” image for the party.
Implications for Leadership
Yilwatda’s lack of “political baggage” – a common attribute of career politicians involved in long-standing intra-party rivalries and historical feuds – could be a significant asset.
This, political observers maintained would enable him (Yilwatda) to approach party matters with a more neutral and unifying perspective, potentially fostering cohesion within a party that has, at times, faced internal rifts and factionalism.
Pundits are of the opinion that being a leader without any known “godfather”, he may not likely to pander to any of the interest groups and power bloc within the party as congresses and contestation for various seats hots up ahead of next year party National Convention and the 2027 general elections.
A professor of computer engineering with bias for digital transformation. His wealth of knowledge in this space of influence, potend a shift towards a more data-driven and technologically advanced party management. He has already pledged to reposition the APC for digital transformation, which could streamline party operations and improve engagement.
His expertise will greatly and positively enhance the recently launched e-membership registration introduced by his predecessor, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.
As a Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Yilwatda championed reforms to the Electoral Act and deepened technology in the electoral system. He is therefore seen as one variable of initiating landmark reforms, using an evidence-based approach to party management.
Unquestioned Loyalty to the President
Globally, a crucial factor in politics is loyalty. With Yilwatda’s appointment, political pundits believe President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will enjoy undisputed loyalty of the new the Sheriff at Muhammadu Buhari House – APC headquarters.
This loyalty is expected to ensure a smooth working relationship between the party leadership and the presidency, minimizing potential friction and enabling a more unified approach to governance and electoral strategy.
This close alignment could be particularly beneficial for President Tinubu as he looks towards the 2027 elections.
A party chairman deeply loyal to the president can effectively steer party affairs in line with the presidential vision, mobilize support, and manage potential internal dissent.
Having served as his Minister of Humanitarian Affairs – a critical sector of the Renewed Hope Agenda, Yilwatda is seen as a trusted ally. This will remove the risk of a party chairman pursuing an agenda divergent from the President’s, which has caused instability in political parties in the past.
Strategic positioning for 2027 and beyond
Beyond internal party management, Yilwatda’s appointment is both strategic and significant for the 2027 elections.
As a Christian from Plateau State (North Central), his emergence is seen by political watchers as a deliberate effort to address concerns over the 2023 single-faith presidential ticket. This could help broaden the party’s appeal and calm frayed nerves not only in the zone but nationwide.
It is on record that Yilwatda remains the youngest substantive APC chairman. This many observers described as a deliberate effort of President Tinubu to inject new and younger generation of political leaders into party management in the country. This development will simulative a smooth transition from the current league of “recycled” leaders who have been at the helms of affairs of party management in the country to a new set of vibrant and well focused emerging younger generation.
In essence, Yilwatda’s chairmanship appears to be a calculated move by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the ruling APC, potentially marking a genuine break from past dominance of “red neck” gubernatorial background leadership.
Al-Makura backs APC chairman, urges unity, discipline in party affairs
Former Governor of Nasarawa State and founding member of the All-Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, has pledged his “total and unflinching” support for the newly appointed National Chairman of the party.
In a personally signed open letter addressed to the new party helmsman, Al-Makura congratulated the Chairman on his emergence, describing it as a reflection of the party’s collective will.
The senator, who played a pivotal role in the 2013 merger that birthed the APC, said the change in leadership presents an opportunity to return the party to its founding principles of discipline, inclusivity, and nation-first politics.
“This is not just a routine transition. It is a reaffirmation of the values upon which our party was built,” he stated.
Amid recent internal realignments within the party, Al-Makura hailed the decision of the National Executive Committee (NEC) and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to appoint the new Chairman as a sign of institutional maturity and internal democracy.
“Let there be no ambiguity: I support the decision of the President and the NEC. The party has spoken. As progressives and democrats, we must move forward in unity,” he declared.
He reiterated that peace and cohesion must take precedence over individual ambition or sectional interests, noting that he remains committed to supporting the party in any capacity that promotes national progress and political stability.
“My commitment remains rooted not in personal ambition, but in strengthening the foundations of the party and deepening democratic governance across Nigeria,” he said.
Political observers say Al-Makura’s public endorsement may serve as a calming influence amid growing speculation about factional interests within the party.
In his letter, he urged other party leaders and stakeholders to embrace consensus, dialogue, and maturity in the party’s ongoing internal adjustments.
“The APC is more than a party. It is a symbol of democratic perseverance and national hope. We must protect it with discipline, patience, and vision,” he wrote.
Al-Makura also cautioned that the task ahead for the party is complex, given the socio-political challenges facing the country. He urged the new Chairman to demonstrate not only administrative capacity but also moral clarity.
“Our citizens are demanding sincerity, consistency, and empathy. We must lead with a clear sense of responsibility and a firm moral compass,” he said.
He advised the party’s new leadership to promote reconciliation and inclusivity, emphasising that the politics of healing and patience must be prioritised in the coming months.
“You have my full support in fostering a leadership style that listens, reconciles, and inspires. A style that honours both experience and innovation,” he noted.
Al-Makura offered himself as a bridge between generations and regions within the party, pledging to work with the new leadership to advance the APC’s founding mission and to mentor younger party members.
“I was part of the early days when dialogue and consensus overcame deep divisions. Today, I offer myself again — not for power, but for unity,” he said.
He also called on the new leadership to reconnect the party to its grassroots base and to make every member feel a sense of belonging.
“The young must feel heard. The old must feel respected. And those who feel sidelined must be reassured that the APC remains their home,” he said.
Describing himself “not as a rival but as a resource,” the former governor pledged to offer his experience and network for consultation, mediation, and support wherever needed.
He warned that the APC must set an example of inclusion and tolerance, stressing that how the party manages its internal affairs will reflect on its ability to govern the nation effectively.
“At a time when Nigeria’s national fabric is under strain from economic pressures and regional anxieties, the APC must become a symbol of cohesion, not conflict,” he said.
Quoting former United Nations Secretary-General, Kofi Annan, Al-Makura emphasised the importance of unity and collective national identity: “We may have different religions, different languages, different coloured skin, but we all belong to one human race.”
He urged the APC to embody the values it espouses, warning that electoral victory alone is not enough.
“We must model the democratic ideals we preach. We are stewards of a vision entrusted to us by the Nigerian people, and we must lead with discipline and humility,” he said.
The former senator concluded by offering prayers for the success of the new Chairman and expressing optimism that the current leadership will inspire confidence, foster reconciliation, and secure long-term political success.
“May your leadership win not only elections, but the hearts and hopes of Nigerians across all divides,” he wrote.
The letter, now widely circulated among party leaders and political observers, is seen as a significant show of support from one of the APC’s respected founding figures.
As the ruling party navigates a new phase in its internal evolution, voices like Al-Makura’s — steady, experienced, and unifying — may play a key role in tempering tensions and guiding the APC through the challenges ahead.
