National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, has travelled out of Nigeria for a two-week vacation, the ruling party has confirmed.
The APC disclosed this on Wednesday, September 9, 2027, explaining that the Plateau-born politician is taking time off after an intensive first year in office.
In his absence, the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) will continue handling its duties in line with the APC constitution and established procedures.
Why Yilwatda Is Taking a Break
A statement signed by Abimbola Tooki, Yilwatda’s Special Adviser on Media and Information Strategy, said the vacation followed what the party described as an “exceptionally demanding and eventful first year” since he became national chairman.
According to the APC, Yilwatda’s schedule over the past months has involved extensive consultations with party stakeholders, nationwide travels and strategic engagements aimed at strengthening the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The ruling party described the break as an opportunity for its chairman to recover from the demanding schedule and prepare for the next phase of his responsibilities.
Yilwatda’s First Year as APC Chairman
Since assuming leadership of the APC, Yilwatda has been involved in several activities aimed at preparing the party for the next electoral cycle.
The party highlighted the successful organisation of its national convention, efforts to strengthen internal party structures and the conduct of primary elections at different levels among the major developments recorded during his tenure so far.
The APC said these activities had further strengthened its position as a major political force in Nigeria and one of the largest political organisations on the African continent.
What Happens While Yilwatda Is Away?
The APC clarified that the chairman’s vacation does not amount to a suspension or withdrawal from party affairs.
According to the statement, Yilwatda intends to use the period to “rest, retool and further sharpen his strategic thinking” ahead of the 2027 elections.
The party also stated:
“The National Working Committee continues to discharge its responsibilities in accordance with the party’s constitution and established procedures,”
While away, Yilwatda is also expected to work on plans for the next stage of the APC’s development and preparations for an upcoming NWC retreat.
The retreat is expected to provide an avenue for party leaders to assess their progress, examine existing challenges and develop strategies for the coming months.
Among the issues expected to receive attention are improved coordination within the NWC and enhanced preparations for the 2027 electoral season.
APC Says Vacation Is Timely
The 2027 elections remain particularly important for the APC and President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda.
Against this backdrop, the ruling party described Yilwatda’s temporary absence as “timely and necessary”, considering the intense schedule of activities since he assumed office.
The APC also assured members and supporters that the national chairman’s absence would not affect the party’s operations.
Yilwatda is expected to return to Nigeria after two weeks and resume his responsibilities as national chairman.