Former APC National Chairman, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje, has thrown his weight behind Professor Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe, describing his emergence as the new party helmsman as “timely and strategic” for Nigeria’s ruling party.
Ganduje, who officially stepped aside from the position last week, described Yilwatda’s elevation as a sign of maturity and continuity within the APC’s leadership structure. His comments were contained in a personal statement made available to journalists on Thursday.
“The emergence of Prof Yilwatda is strategic,” Ganduje said. “It comes at a critical period in the life of the party. I have profound confidence in his capacity, intellect, maturity, and administrative competence to move the party forward.”
He commended the party’s National Executive Committee for what he called a consensus-driven and transparent selection process. According to Ganduje, the manner in which Yilwatda was picked reflected the APC’s commitment to internal democracy and unity ahead of future electoral battles.
Political observers see Yilwatda’s emergence as part of a broader strategy to consolidate northern support and reposition the party ahead of the 2027 general elections, especially with growing speculation about Vice President Kashim Shettima’s potential political interests.
Ganduje used the occasion to acknowledge the role played by President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Shettima in ensuring what he called a “smooth and respectable transition” within the party hierarchy.
“Our President and Vice President have once again shown maturity and far-sightedness in the affairs of our great party,” he said. “Their commitment to ensuring cohesion and stability within the APC is commendable.”
The former Kano governor also sent a strong message to party stakeholders, urging the National Working Committee, youth and women wings, state chapters, governors, lawmakers, and grassroots members to queue behind the new chairman.
“As I bow out with a sense of fulfilment, I wish to assure Prof Yilwatda of my unflinching support, counsel, and brotherly solidarity,” he added. “I urge all our leaders and members across the federation to give him the necessary backing to consolidate on our party’s vision.”
Yilwatda, a former university lecturer and public policy expert, is expected to bring a technocratic approach to party management at a time of political realignment, economic pressure, and rising expectations from the electorate.
Ganduje ended his statement by reaffirming his loyalty to the APC and pledging to remain available for mentorship, political strategy, and party-building whenever called upon.
