Janet Samuel
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, has emphasised the importance of state structures in driving the success of the party, stating that grassroots mobilization and strong legislative presence are key to political victories.
Yilwatda made this known when he received members of the Plateau State House of Assembly, led by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Naanlong Daniel Gapyil, during a courtesy visit to the APC national headquarters in Abuja.
He commended the lawmakers for their show of solidarity and urged them to remain committed to strengthening the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Highlighting the APC’s legislative majority in Plateau State, the party chairman noted that the APC currently controls 22 out of 24 seats in the state House of Assembly, six out of eight seats in the House of Representatives, and two out of three Senate seats representing the state, he expressed optimism about the party’s chances of securing the governorship in the next election cycle.
“What we don’t have yet is the governorship seat, but I believe with your strength, unity, and support, we will get it back,” Yilwatda said. “Plateau has always played an important role in national politics, and your continued leadership at the state level is vital.”
He encouraged the legislators to increase political engagement with constituents and to help galvanize support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, especially as preparations for the 2027 general elections begin to take shape.
Prof. Yilwatda reiterated his vision of a more inclusive and transparent APC, promising to implement internal reforms aimed at party unity, effective coordination, and public trust-building ahead of the next general elections.
Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Naanlong Gapyil, said the lawmakers’ visit was to pledge support to the new party leadership and affirm their commitment to the APC’s goals both in the state and nationally.
According to the Speaker, the APC in Plateau remains united and strong, with a majority across legislative bodies. He said the lawmakers are ready to support President Tinubu’s administration and work toward securing electoral victories for the party in the upcoming polls.
Gapyil also addressed the working relationship between the APC-dominated legislature and the PDP-led executive in the state. He noted that despite party differences, both arms of government have continued to cooperate in the interest of the Plateau people.
“We are working together to ensure stability and development in Plateau. Where challenges arise, we resolve them through dialogue. Our primary focus remains the wellbeing of the citizens,” he said.
