Former Plateau State Governor and Senator for Plateau South, Simon Lalong, has praised the appointment of Nentawe Yilwatda as the new National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), calling it a smart move that will strengthen the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
During a visit to the APC national secretariat in Abuja, Lalong said Yilwatda’s time as Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Benue State from 2017 to 2021 gave him deep knowledge of Nigeria’s electoral system, an advantage that will help APC prepare for the polls.
“He’s not new to politics or administration,” Lalong said. “From being a REC, to becoming our governorship candidate in Plateau, and even serving as a minister, he has walked the path.”
Lalong also argued that being a former governor is not a requirement to lead a party. He believes Yilwatda connects with young people and understands the needs of modern politics.
Former Women Affairs Minister, Pauline Tallen, also applauded President Bola Tinubu for choosing Yilwatda, saying his leadership will open new opportunities for the party.
With 2027 in view, party leaders believe Yilwatda’s mix of electoral and grassroots experience may be just what APC needs.
