…Honors Late Mother of APC Chairman in Jos
In a heartfelt address on Saturday, October 4, 2025, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to fostering religious harmony and ensuring fairness across all faiths in Nigeria. Speaking in Jos, Plateau State, during a visit to the headquarters of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN), the President emphasized his mission to unite the nation, promote prosperity, and decisively tackle the pervasive security challenges that have plagued the country. His remarks were made while paying his last respects to Nana Lydia Yilwatda, the late mother of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Professor Nantawe Yilwatda, who passed away at the age of 83.
The President’s visit to Jos was marked by a powerful message of unity and resilience, as captured in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga. The statement highlighted Tinubu’s personal commitment to religious tolerance, drawing from his own life experiences. “In our family, we have a strong Muslim background, and I married a Christian, a pastor for that matter, and I have never forced her to change her religion,” the President declared, underscoring his belief in mutual respect among Nigeria’s diverse religious communities. He assured Christian leaders in Northern Nigeria that his administration would uphold fairness and equity, ensuring that no group feels marginalized.
Tinubu’s address also focused on the pressing issue of insecurity, which has been a major concern for Nigerians, particularly in the northern regions. He vowed to intensify efforts to combat terrorism, banditry, and the recurring farmers-herders clashes that have destabilized communities and disrupted livelihoods. “We are defeating bandits, and we will defeat them. We will deal with them and combat the farmers-herders clashes,” he asserted with conviction. The President expressed confidence in his administration’s progress, noting that tangible steps are being taken to restore peace and security across the country. Beyond security, Tinubu emphasized his government’s commitment to revamping the economy to ensure prosperity for all Nigerians, regardless of their religious or ethnic affiliations.
The President’s visit to Jos was not only a gesture of condolence but also a reflection of his administration’s engagement with grassroots communities. He described the late Nana Lydia Yilwatda as a “devoted mother and humanitarian” whose life was a testament to sacrifice and service. Nana Yilwatda, who passed away at 83, was celebrated for her resilience and dedication to her family and community. According to the APC National Chairman, Professor Nantawe Yilwatda, his mother lived on medication for 47 years, yet she never wavered in her commitment to supporting those around her. In an emotional tribute, Professor Yilwatda expressed deep gratitude to President Tinubu for his support during this period of grief and pledged to uphold the trust placed in him as the APC Chairman.
The funeral service for Nana Yilwatda was a significant event, drawing a distinguished gathering of Nigeria’s political elite. Among the attendees were Senate President Godswill Akpabio, the Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, AbdulRazaq Abdulrahman, members of the APC National Working Committee, several ministers, senators, former governors, and former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara. The presence of such high-profile figures underscored the importance of the occasion and the respect commanded by the Yilwatda family within Nigeria’s political and social spheres.
During his interaction with Christian leaders at the COCIN headquarters, President Tinubu received commendations for his inclusive approach to governance. Reverend Dr. Amos Mohzo, the President and Spiritual Leader of COCIN, praised the President for appointing Christians to key positions in his administration. He specifically highlighted the appointments of Senator George Akume as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and Professor Nantawe Yilwatda as the APC National Chairman as evidence of Tinubu’s commitment to religious balance. Reverend Mohzo, however, urged the President to do more to address the plight of victims of violence in Plateau and Benue States, where conflicts have displaced many residents. He also called for support for displaced Christians from Borno and Adamawa States who have sought refuge in Cameroon due to the ongoing insurgency in Nigeria’s Northeast.
The President’s visit to Jos and his assurances to Christian leaders come at a critical time when Nigeria is grappling with multifaceted challenges, including insecurity, economic hardship, and social divisions. His message of unity resonates strongly in a country where religious and ethnic diversity has often been a source of tension. By drawing on his personal experience of interfaith harmony within his own family, Tinubu sought to set an example for Nigerians, emphasizing that mutual respect and coexistence are essential for national progress.
Tinubu’s pledge to crush insecurity is particularly significant given the persistent threats posed by banditry, terrorism, and communal clashes. In recent years, Northern Nigeria has been a hotspot for violent conflicts, with bandits wreaking havoc in states like Zamfara, Kaduna, and Katsina, while Boko Haram and other insurgent groups continue to destabilize the Northeast. The farmers-herders clashes, often rooted in competition over land and resources, have further exacerbated tensions, particularly in the Middle Belt region, including Plateau and Benue States. The President’s commitment to addressing these issues head-on signals a renewed focus on restoring peace and stability, which are prerequisites for economic development and social cohesion.
Economically, Tinubu’s administration has been working to implement reforms aimed at revitalizing Nigeria’s economy, which has faced challenges such as inflation, unemployment, and currency depreciation. While these reforms have sparked debates and, in some cases, public discontent, the President’s assurance of progress suggests a long-term vision for economic recovery. His emphasis on prosperity for all Nigerians aligns with his broader goal of fostering inclusive growth, where no region or community is left behind.
The funeral of Nana Yilwatda provided a platform for Tinubu to not only pay his respects but also to connect with religious and community leaders in Plateau State, a region that has been a focal point of communal violence in recent years. His presence at the COCIN headquarters and his engagement with Christian leaders demonstrate his administration’s willingness to listen to the concerns of diverse groups and work toward solutions that promote unity and peace.
As Nigeria navigates its complex challenges, President Tinubu’s leadership will be closely watched, particularly in how his administration delivers on its promises of security, economic recovery, and religious fairness. The President’s personal commitment to these ideals, as reflected in his remarks in Jos, could serve as a foundation for building trust among Nigeria’s diverse population. However, the success of these pledges will depend on the implementation of concrete policies and actions that address the root causes of insecurity and economic hardship.
In conclusion, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visit to Jos on October 4, 2025, was a significant moment for both mourning and reaffirming his administration’s commitment to Nigeria’s unity and progress. By honoring the legacy of Nana Lydia Yilwatda, a woman who exemplified sacrifice and resilience, Tinubu also used the occasion to address critical national issues. His assurances of religious fairness, coupled with a resolute pledge to eradicate insecurity, send a message of hope to Nigerians. As the country looks to the future, the President’s ability to translate these promises into tangible results will be crucial in shaping Nigeria’s path toward stability, prosperity, and unity. The presence of prominent political figures at the funeral further highlighted the importance of collective support for Tinubu’s vision, as Nigeria seeks to overcome its challenges and build a brighter future for all its citizens.
