Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda was born on August 8, 1968, in Dungung, Kanke Local Government Area of Plateau State. He hails from a Christian family and is the son of the Late Rev. and Mrs. Toma Yilwatda. A prominent figure within the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe has long been active in Plateau State politics.
Education
B.Eng. in Electrical/Electronic Engineering: Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi (1992).
M.Eng. & Ph.D. in Digital Systems Engineering and Al: ATBU Bauchi, University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
Professional Experience
Assistant Lecturer: Plateau State Polytechnic, Barkin-Ladi (1995)
Graduate Assistant: Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi (1996)
Teaching & Research: Over 25 years of experience in software engineering, sustainable development, renewable energy technologies.
Director of ICT: Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi (12 years).
Consultant: Extensive consultancy with international development partners, public and private sectors.
Key Projects and Contributions
ICT Reforms & Financial Management Systems: Worked with Alteq Ltd/European Union (2003-2005)
UNICEF Projects: Lead consultant for alternative energy sources for cold chain system (2005-2012)
Energy and Economic Audit: Lead consultant for Energy Commission of Nigeria/UNDP.
PAWA 774 Project: Deployed eco-friendly electricity to communities.
Roles in Electoral Processes
INEC Commissioner: Appointed in 2017, championed IDP voting rights, member of operational framework development for IDP voting.
Electoral Missions: Participated in various elections including Anambra, Kogi West, Osun, Benue, Rivers, Cross River North.
Professional Associations
Registered Engineer: Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN)
Member: Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers, Nigeria Society of Engineers, Solar Society of Nigeria.
Involvement in Politics
APC gubernatorial flag bearer Plateau State (2023)
Ministerial Appointment Following his successful nomination by President Bola Tinubu, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda is poised to become Nigeria’s new Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, pending Senate confirmation. This appointment marks a new phase in his public service career, where he is expected to apply his wealth of experience to addressing key humanitarian challenges in Nigeria. His appointment ends speculations about the return of former minister Betta Edu to the role.
