Sen. Girei Celebrates Yilwatda’s Historic Rise as APC National Chairman, Hails Strategic Balancing Act

By Emmanuel Kwada

In a landmark moment for Nigerian politics, Senator Abubakar Halilu Girei, a distinguished All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain and former representative of Adamawa Central, has extended heartfelt congratulations to Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda on his groundbreaking election as the APC’s National Chairman.

Yilwatda’s emergence marks a historic milestone, as he becomes the first young, highly educated, and seasoned professional to lead a major Nigerian political party in recent times, heralding a new era of dynamic leadership.

In a statement personally signed and released to the press on Friday, July 25, 2025, Senator Girei lauded the transparent and peaceful transition during the APC’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, which culminated in Yilwatda’s election. He described the process as a shining example of the party’s deepening internal democracy under the visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“The seamless and credible election of Professor Yilwatda reflects President Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to due process, institutional strength, and democratic values,” Girei said. “This is a proud moment for the APC and Nigeria’s political landscape.”

The seamless and credible election of Professor Yilwatda reflects President Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to due process, institutional strength, and democratic values

Girei emphasized the strategic significance of Yilwatda’s appointment, particularly its balancing effect across regional, ethnic, and religious lines. Hailing from Nigeria’s North-Central region, Yilwatda’s leadership bridges longstanding divides, fostering inclusivity and unity within the APC and the nation.

“His selection is a masterstroke that promotes national cohesion,” Girei noted. “It sends a powerful message of fairness and representation, ensuring that all regions, ethnicities, and faiths feel included in the APC’s vision for Nigeria’s future.”

This is a proud moment for the APC and Nigeria’s political landscape

The former senator highlighted Yilwatda’s unique profile as a young, accomplished academic and technocrat with a deep understanding of Nigeria’s complex political terrain. “Professor Yilwatda’s election is a historic first,” Girei said.

“Never before has such a youthful, highly educated, and experienced professional led a major political party like the APC in recent Nigerian history. His background as a scholar and administrator equips him to drive bold reforms, inject fresh ideas, and galvanize the party for the challenges of the 2027 general election.”

Girei expressed confidence that Yilwatda’s leadership will usher in a transformative chapter for the APC, characterized by innovation, inclusivity, and robust grassroots engagement. “With Professor Yilwatda at the helm, the APC is poised to consolidate its gains, expand its national appeal, and remain a dominant force in Nigerian politics,” he said. “His youthful energy and forward-thinking approach will resonate with millions of Nigerians, particularly the younger generation, who yearn for responsive and visionary leadership.”

The senator also commended President Tinubu for steering the party toward unity and progress, noting that the APC’s ability to balance regional, ethnic, and religious dynamics in its leadership choices strengthens its role as a unifying force in Nigeria.

“This strategic decision not only reinforces the APC’s commitment to equity but also positions it as a party that truly represents the diversity of our great nation,” Girei added.

Let us unite behind Professor Yilwatda to build a stronger, more inclusive, and forward-looking APC

As the APC embarks on this new journey under Yilwatda’s leadership, Senator Girei called on party stakeholders to rally behind the new chairman, emphasizing the need for unity and collective action.

“Let us unite behind Professor Yilwatda to build a stronger, more inclusive, and forward-looking APC,” he urged. “His emergence is a clarion call to reenergize our party, reconnect with the grassroots, and deliver on our promise of progress for all Nigerians.”

With Yilwatda’s historic election, the APC stands at a pivotal moment, poised to redefine its legacy and lead Nigeria toward a brighter, more united future.