On October 23, 2024, President Bola Tinubu appointed Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda as the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.
Prof. Yilwatda, a distinguished academic, engineer, and political figure, has had a long career filled with significant contributions to academia, governance, and humanitarian causes.
His vast experience makes him a perfect fit for this pivotal ministry, which aims to address poverty alleviation and humanitarian challenges in Nigeria.
Early Life and Education
Professor Nentawe Yilwatda was born and raised in Plateau State, where he began his education and developed a keen interest in engineering and technology.
Educational Background
Prof. Yilwatda holds an impressive array of academic qualifications from several top institutions, including:
- PhD in Electronic Engineering from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (2013)
- Master of Engineering (Electronics) from Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi (2000)
- Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical/Electronics) from the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi (1992)
- Certificate Course (Foundations of Electronic Governance) from Institute for Software Technology, United Nations University, China (2006)
His solid academic background in electrical and computer engineering provides him with the technical expertise and analytical thinking necessary to manage complex projects and systems.
Professional and Academic Experience
Professor Nentawe Yilwatda has had a distinguished career in academia and public service. His experience spans both university leadership and governmental roles.
1. Professor of Computer Engineering (1996–2022)
Prof. Yilwatda served as a Professor of Computer Engineering at the University of Agriculture, Makurdi, where he held numerous positions and contributed significantly to academic growth. His expertise in electronics and information technology made him an invaluable asset in the university system.
- Director of Information and Communication Technology at the University of Agriculture, Makurdi
- Member of various Senate Committees for Strategic Planning, Performance Evaluation, and University Administration
- Recognized as the Best Staff of the Year and Best Director of the Year in 2012
2. Resident Electoral Commissioner (INEC, 2017–2021)
Yilwatda served as the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Benue State with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), where he played a crucial role in overseeing several elections:
- Anambra State Governorship Election (2017)
- Osun State Governorship Election (2018)
- Benue 2019 General Elections
- Kogi State Governorship Election (2019)
During his tenure, he spearheaded innovative projects, such as:
- Developing the Voting Framework for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs)
- Implementing the Voting System for People Living with Disabilities (PWD)
- Evaluating and promoting the use of Electronic Voting Machines and the BVAS Machine
His work at INEC demonstrated his commitment to ensuring electoral transparency, inclusivity, and efficiency.
Political Career and Leadership
Prof. Yilwatda’s political journey has been marked by leadership roles within the All Progressives Congress (APC) and his gubernatorial bid in Plateau State.
1. Gubernatorial Candidate (2022–2023)
In 2022, Yilwatda contested for the governorship of Plateau State under the APC. Although he did not win, his campaign highlighted his passion for governance and development in his home state.
2. Chairman, Plateau State APC General Election Campaign Council (2022–2023)
Yilwatda played a crucial role in mobilizing support for the APC during the 2023 general elections in Plateau State, ensuring that the party had a strong presence in the region.
3. Coordinator, Tinubu-Shettima Presidential Campaign (2022–2023)
He also coordinated the Tinubu-Shettima Presidential Campaign in Plateau State, further demonstrating his political acumen and ability to build broad-based support.
Humanitarian and Development Work
Prof. Yilwatda’s commitment to humanitarian work has been evident through various initiatives, particularly his efforts to uplift marginalized communities.
1. Support for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs)
During his tenure at INEC, he was instrumental in setting up schools for IDP children in Benue State and empowering IDP women in camps through skill acquisition programs. This experience aligns directly with his new role as the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, where he will focus on expanding support for displaced persons across Nigeria.
2. Engagement with the Nigerian Diaspora
He has also worked with organizations like UNIDO and UNICEF to implement development projects, including renewable energy initiatives and capacity-building workshops for Nigerian engineers.
Publications and Research Contributions
Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda is also an accomplished researcher and author with numerous publications in top engineering journals. His research has focused on renewable energy, electronics, and information technology. Some of his notable works include:
- “Optimum Design of Phase Opposition Disposition Pulse Width Modulation Logic Circuit” (2016)
- “Implementation of Maximum Power Point Tracking with a Boost Converter and a Three-Level 3-Phase Inverter” (2016)
- “Equal Power Sharing in Cascaded 5-Level Multi-Level Inverter Modules” (2014)
His contributions to engineering research further highlight his analytical approach and problem-solving capabilities, which will prove vital in addressing Nigeria’s humanitarian challenges.
Membership in Professional Bodies
Prof. Yilwatda is a member of several prestigious professional organizations, including:
- Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN)
- Nigeria Society of Engineers (NSE)
- Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
These memberships attest to his expertise and recognition within the engineering field.
Summary Table of Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda’s Profile
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda |
| Education | PhD in Electronic Engineering, MSc, BEng |
| Academic Roles | Professor of Computer Engineering, University of Agriculture, Makurdi |
| Political Roles | Gubernatorial Candidate, APC Chairman, Campaign Coordinator |
| INEC Roles | Resident Electoral Commissioner (2017–2021) |
| Humanitarian Work | IDP Support, Disability Voting Framework, IDP Schools |
| Professional Memberships | COREN, IEEE, NSE |
| Key Publications | Renewable Energy, Electronics, Voting Technology |
