APC Is Nigeria’s Most Youthful Party, Says Yilwatda

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, has reiterated the party’s commitment to internal democracy, transparency, and inclusiveness, describing it as the most youth-driven political party in Nigeria.

Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Tuesday after his screening by the APC panel ahead of the party’s national convention, Yilwatda stressed that the party operates on established rules and systems that apply equally to all members, regardless of status.

“In the APC, everyone is subject to the system. The system takes precedence over individuals,” he said.

He praised the convention committees for their unity and coordination, noting that the APC has avoided the internal disputes and public disagreements often seen in other political parties during similar processes.

Yilwatda also commended party stakeholders, including governors, lawmakers, and members of the executive, for their support over the past eight months, which he said has strengthened the party.

Highlighting the party’s membership profile, he revealed that more than 50 percent of APC members are between the ages of 18 and 35, demonstrating its strong appeal among young Nigerians. In contrast, only about 18 percent of members are aged 50 and above.

“This clearly shows that the youth are with us and that the party has a strong future,” he added.

He further noted that the party’s use of technology in membership registration has improved its data management and strategic planning.

On gender inclusion, Yilwatda acknowledged that women are still underrepresented in the National Assembly but assured that the party is working to address the imbalance. He cited the implementation of the 35 percent affirmative action policy within party structures, particularly in convention committees, as part of efforts to promote women’s participation.

The APC chairman also maintained that the party has a strong presence across all six geopolitical zones of the country. He pointed to recent by-election victories in areas such as Kano, Zaria, Adamawa, and regions across the South-West, South-South, and South-East as evidence of its nationwide reach.

“No other political party has achieved this level of spread in the past year,” he claimed.

Yilwatda added that the APC has successfully resolved internal disputes through arbitration rather than litigation, noting that no court cases have emerged from recent local, state, and zonal congresses.

“This demonstrates that APC members believe in the party’s processes and systems,” he said.

Reaffirming the party’s emphasis on structure and loyalty, he stated that the APC prioritises committed members over informal supporters.

“We do not recognise ‘friends of the party.’ We recognise members, because membership comes with responsibilities,” he said.

Yilwatda expressed appreciation to party members and Nigerians for their continued support, expressing confidence that the APC will build on its achievements and record further successes in future elections.