APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda
By CHRISTIANA LOT, Jos –
Newly appointed National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, has said that Plateau State has consistently produced leaders at pivotal times in Nigeria’s history, positioning the state as a stabilizing force in national affairs.
Prof. Yilwatda stated this on Wednesday in Jos while addressing the Gbong Gwom Jos and Chairman of the Plateau State Council of Chiefs and Emirs, His Royal Majesty, Da Jacob Gyang Buba, during a courtesy visit to the palace.
According to him, his emergence as National Chairman of the APC is yet another moment when Nigeria has looked to Plateau for direction and leadership.
“It just shows that you, as my fathers, trained me well. I’m not the first. Suleiman Lar was the first in 1998. It shows that when there’s need for leadership at the national level, Plateau is always a junction,”
“In 1966, when there was need for leadership in Nigeria in the midst of crisis, Yakubu Gowon was called upon. In 1998, when there was need to prove a pathway for Nigerian democracy, Solomon Lar was called to duty. Today, APC has called me.” He stated.
He said his visit to the traditional council was not only to appreciate God for his elevation, but also to seek the prayers and blessings of the elders who stood by him in the past.
“When I was contesting for governorship, I came here and you prayed for me in your chiefdoms. That blessing is what has taken me this far. I want the same prayer even triple it so I’ll have multiple blessings and strength to lead Nigeria and our party into success.”
The APC national chairman was accompanied by Governors Hope Uzodinma (Imo), Ahmed Aliyu (Sokoto), Usman Ododo (Kogi), and Hyacinth Alia (Benue), who joined him in delivering President Bola Tinubu’s message to the traditional institution.
Speaking at the palace, Governor Uzodinma, who is also Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, said the President personally directed that Nentawe be accompanied by governors to Plateau to demonstrate the significance of the moment.
“Mr. President said, ‘You can’t go alone. You’re going home. I will send governors to follow you.’”
“He asked me to thank the traditional council for producing a leader like Prof. Nentawe. He believes Plateau has trained him well and we are proud to stand with him as he assumes this important role,” he emphasized.
In his remarks, the Gbong Gwom Jos pledged the support of the traditional council to the APC chairman and appealed to political leaders across the country to prioritize the stability of Nigeria.
“We know things are difficult. Security, economy — all are under pressure. But we appeal to you and the President to lead with the fear of God and restore peace across our land,”
“We are not unaware of the challenges you all face, but we believe you were chosen for a time like this. You have our blessings and prayers.” He said.
The monarch also warned against the divisive rhetoric of some religious leaders and emphasized the need for mutual respect and national unity.
Prof. Yilwatda also visited the Plateau Central Mosque, several Christian centres and stakeholders as part of his homecoming visit.
