Pays Tribute to Late Lydia Yilwatda, Mother of APC National Chairman
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to unity, equity, and fairness among all Nigerians, assuring Christian communities in the North that they will not be marginalized under his leadership.
Speaking during a condolence visit to the Headquarters of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN), Jos, Plateau State, President Tinubu emphasized that his government’s mission is to unite the country and foster inclusive national prosperity.
“I have a mission to unite this country, ensure its prosperity, and we are making progress,” the President declared.
While paying tribute to the late Madam Lydia Yilwatda, mother of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Professor Nantawe Yilwatda, who passed away at the age of 83, President Tinubu described her as “a devoted mother and humanitarian whose life embodied faith and service.”
The President also used the occasion to highlight his personal example of religious tolerance and respect, saying:
“In our family, we have a strong Muslim background, and I married a Christian — a pastor, for that matter. I have never forced her to change her religion.”
President Tinubu called on religious leaders to continue preaching unity and peace, stressing that “leaders have a collective responsibility to manage religious diversity for the benefit of all Nigerians.”
Focus on Security and Economic Revival
The President reiterated his administration’s determination to restore peace and stability across the country, assuring that decisive actions are being taken against terrorism, banditry, and communal violence.
“We are defeating bandits, and we will defeat them completely. We will deal with them and also address the farmers-herders clashes,” he said.
He added that his administration is implementing robust economic reforms to deliver sustainable growth and improved livelihoods for all Nigerians.
Tribute and Historical Reflection
Reflecting on his long connection with Jos, the President recalled political moments that shaped the nation’s democratic history, including meetings during the Social Democratic Party (SDP) era that paved the way for the late Chief MKO Abiola’s emergence.
“Today, I am grateful to God to be alive, to serve as President, and to return here to honour a mother of the community,” he added.
Tributes from Family and Clergy
In his remarks, the APC National Chairman, Professor Nantawe Yilwatda, described his late mother as a hardworking woman who lived with health challenges for 47 years but remained steadfast in faith and service.
“My mother worked tirelessly, supporting us and offering humanitarian assistance despite her condition. I thank God for her life,” he said.
The President of COCIN, Reverend Dr. Amos Mohzo, commended President Tinubu for his inclusive appointments and for demonstrating fairness toward Northern Christians through key appointments such as Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, and APC National Chairman, Professor Yilwatda.
He also appreciated the President’s ongoing efforts to curb insecurity in Plateau and Benue States and appealed for federal assistance to victims of conflict and displaced Christian communities from Borno and Adamawa States.
“We assure Your Excellency of our unwavering support as you pursue the Renewed Hope Agenda,” Mohzo pledged.
Dignitaries in Attendance
The funeral prayer was attended by prominent national figures, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio; Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, AbdulRazaq Abdulrahman; National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu; Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; and several federal ministers.
Also present were former Secretaries to the Government of the Federation, George Akume and Boss Mustapha, as well as former governors Tanko Al-Makura (Nasarawa), Adamu Mu’azu (Bauchi), Fidelis Tapgun (Plateau), Yahaya Bello (Kogi), and Rochas Okorocha (Imo).
Members of the APC National Working Committee, Senators, House of Representatives members, and directors from the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs also graced the solemn occasion.
