President Tinubu, Governor Mutfwang Honour Late Mother of APC Chairman in Plateau

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu joined political leaders and dignitaries in Jos, Plateau State, on Saturday to pay final respects to the late Mama Lydia Yilwatda Goshwe, mother of the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda.

Delivering a tribute at the funeral service held at the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) Headquarters, President Tinubu eulogized the late matriarch as a devoted mother, a humanitarian, and a pillar of faith. He expressed his honor in celebrating her life and commended the community for its strong traditions.

Emphasizing the importance of national unity, the President stated, “Hate is not an option; love is what we must continue to preach.” He concluded with prayers for God's comfort for the Goshwe family and the peaceful repose of Mama Lydia’s soul.

In his remarks, Plateau State Governor, Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, expressed profound gratitude to President Tinubu for his presence, noting that the state deeply valued the support from the First Family. He also highlighted his administration's efforts to align with the President's Renewed Hope Agenda through investments in agriculture, livestock development, and infrastructure.

On security, Governor Mutfwang acknowledged the federal government's support in reducing attacks and reiterated his commitment to fostering unity and leading with fairness. He congratulated Professor Yilwatda on his appointment as APC National Chairman, assuring the President of his readiness to collaborate with the new party leader for the state's benefit.

In an emotionally charged tribute, the APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, reflected on his mother’s extraordinary life. He revealed that at age 36, she was diagnosed with an illness and given only two years to live, but defied medical predictions and lived another 47 years.

“She was a hardworking woman who supported the family even when my father earned very little,” he shared. “She ensured that all of us went to good schools and lived selflessly for others. That is the woman we are celebrating today—the woman Nigeria has come to celebrate.”

Professor Yilwatda drew parallels between his mother's strength and that of President Tinubu's late mother, highlighting their unwavering dedication to family. He expressed deep gratitude to the President, the Progressive Governors Forum, and the people of Plateau State for their support, and ended with a promise to uphold the trust placed in him.

The service, attended by top political figures, clergy, and community leaders, served as both a farewell and a celebration of a life marked by faith, resilience, and service.