The chairman of Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Plateau State, Rufus Bature, has publicly expressed his interest in filling the ministerial vacancy left by former Humanitarian Affairs Minister Nentawe Yilwatda, who recently became the party’s national chairman. Speaking to journalists at the APC’s state headquarters in Jos on Wednesday, Bature emphasized his qualifications for the role while acknowledging that such appointments ultimately rest with President Bola Tinubu.
“The president has the sole authority to appoint ministers, and if he considers me capable, I will accept the opportunity,” Bature said, framing his appeal as a willingness to serve rather than a direct campaign. The vacancy arose after Yilwatda transitioned to lead the APC following the resignation of Abdullahi Ganduje, a move Bature described as a strategic win for Plateau State.
Bature praised Yilwatda’s ascension, noting it marked the first time in decades that a Plateau native has held the APC’s top position since the late Solomon Lar, a prominent political figure in Nigeria’s history. “This appointment elevates Plateau’s stature nationally,” he said, adding that Yilwatda’s leadership could strengthen the party’s electoral prospects ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The party chairman detailed the rigorous selection process for Yilwatda’s role, emphasizing compliance with APC guidelines. “After extensive consultations and reviews, Prof. Yilwatda emerged as the consensus candidate nominated by President Tinubu and ratified by the party’s National Executive Committee,” he explained. According to Bature, the decision reflects both Yilwatda’s credentials and the administration’s confidence in Plateau’s political contributors.
While Bature’s remarks highlighted regional pride, they also underscored broader dynamics within Nigeria’s ruling party as it navigates leadership reshuffles and prepares for future polls. Analysts suggest ministerial appointments often balance regional representation, party loyalty, and expertise—a calculus Tinubu will weigh in filling the role.
For now, Bature’s subtle pitch centers on his governance experience and Plateau’s renewed political relevance, framing himself as a candidate capable of advancing both state and national interests. The outcome, however, hinges on Tinubu’s priorities amid competing demands within the APC’s complex coalition.
