The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, has embarked on a two-week vacation outside Nigeria following what the party described as an exceptionally demanding first year in office.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by Abimbola Tooki, Special Adviser to the National Chairman on Media and Information Strategy, the break is aimed at allowing Yilwatda to rest, recharge and reflect on the responsibilities ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The APC said Yilwatda’s first year in office had been marked by extensive party activities, including consultations, nationwide travels and strategic engagements focused on strengthening and repositioning the ruling party.
Since taking over as national chairman, Yilwatda has collaborated with the National Working Committee (NWC), governors, National Assembly members, state party structures, elected officials and other stakeholders to consolidate the APC ahead of the 2027 polls.
Among the key achievements highlighted by the party were the successful planning and conclusion of its National Convention, efforts to strengthen internal party structures and the conduct of primary elections across different levels.
“These achievements, coming within a relatively short period, have further consolidated the APC’s position as Nigeria’s leading political party and one of Africa’s largest and most formidable political organisations,” the statement said.
The APC clarified that Yilwatda’s vacation should not be seen as a withdrawal from his duties, describing it instead as “an opportunity to step back briefly from the intensity of day-to-day activities, recharge and reflect on the enormous responsibilities ahead.”
The party added that the chairman would use the period to further develop his strategic plans for the 2027 elections, which it described as a defining period for the APC and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda.
Yilwatda is also expected to reflect on the next stage of the party’s development and finalise preparations for an upcoming retreat of the National Working Committee.
The retreat is expected to enable the NWC to assess the party’s progress, identify emerging challenges and formulate strategies for the months ahead.
According to the statement, the meeting will also enhance coordination among NWC members and strengthen the APC’s readiness for the 2027 electoral season.
The ruling party stressed that Yilwatda’s absence from Nigeria would not disrupt its operations, noting that the NWC would continue to perform its duties in accordance with the party’s constitution and established procedures.
“The APC National Chairman remains fully committed to the party and its objectives,” the statement said.
Yilwatda is expected to return to Nigeria after the two-week vacation and continue his official engagements.