The President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has called on every Nigerian to embrace peace and love one another.
The President made the call at the Funeral Service of the late Nana Lydia Yilwatda, mother of the National Chairman of All Progressive Congress, Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, held on Saturday 4th October, 2025 at the COCIN Headquarters, Jos Plateau State.
The President said hate is not an option but people should love one another and be their brother’s keeper. “Our love to our fellow human being is what is important, we must learn to live as on one people”.
“I inherited Islam from my family, I didn’t change. My wife is a pastor and I have never convinced or converted her; she prays for all the time. I believe in the freedom of religion”.
“We are praying and answerable to the same Almighty God. We will account to Him of our deeds and character.
He referred to Professor Nentawe Yilwatda as a good man, a progressive thinker, performer, who lives a good life and that has earned him the position of the APC party Chairman.
The President said he was in Jos along with all Governors’ and the APC party members as well as other distinguished guests to share with him the joy of the day. “Make it a joyful day as you bury your mother. I did mine and I am doing well.
“Mama Lydia dedicated her life to God and humanity and Nigerians are gathered in Jos today to honour her.
The President also appreciated the clergy for the support towards the successful hosting of the event in the COCIN Headquarters. He urged them to continue to promote peace, stability and friendliness in the state.
President Tinubu prayed for God to accept the soul of Mama Lydia and bless all that she left behind.
The Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency Caleb Mutfwang, appreciated the President for attending the funeral service as well as the First lady, Her Excellency Senator Oluremi Tinubu for supporting the vulnerable persons in the state. He said plateau State is putting things in place to achieve the 8- Point Agenda of the Tinubu’s administration.
The Governor thanked Mr President for appointing Prof. Yilwatda as the National Chairman of APC and promised to cooperate and support him.
The Chairman APC, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda thanked the President for honouring the State and the family with his presence during his mother’s funeral. He also appreciated Mr President for believing and trusting in him and promised to keep the trust. Prof. Yilwatda also thanked God hg well wishers for honouring the family, cooperation, support and prayers and wished everyone safe journey back to their destination.
The delegation of the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction was led by the Minister of State, Dr Yusuf Tanko Sununu.
Other dignitaries at the funeral service include Members of the National Assembly, Ministers, Governors, former Service Chiefs, Chief of staff to the President, traditional rulers, Diplomats, Directors of FMHAPR, Heads of Agencies, APC party members, the clergy, among others.
Signed
Iliya Rhoda Ishaku
Director Information and Poverty Reduction
