The Chairman of the Plateau State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. Rufus Bature, has subtly expressed interest in a ministerial appointment, appealing to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to consider him for the vacant slot left by Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, who was recently appointed National Chairman of the ruling party.
Bature made the remarks on Wednesday during a media briefing at the APC state secretariat in Jos. He highlighted his qualifications and readiness to serve, noting that the final decision rests with the President.
“Appointing a minister is at the discretion of President Bola Tinubu and if he finds me worthy to be one of his cabinet members, I will gladly accept because I am ably qualified,” Bature said.
The former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Prof. Yilwatda, had vacated the ministerial position following his elevation to APC National Chairman, a move Bature described as a significant win for Plateau State.
Speaking on Yilwatda’s appointment, Bature praised the due process followed by the party and noted the symbolic importance of a Plateau son ascending to such a national leadership position.
“The appointment of Prof. Yilwatda is a great honour for Plateau State. The last person from Plateau to hold such a position was the late Baba Solomon Lar,” Bature noted. “His leadership will further boost our image and electoral value heading into the 2027 elections.”
He added that Yilwatda’s elevation is expected to strengthen the ruling party’s standing in Plateau State and across the country.
With Plateau State now holding a key leadership post in the APC, pressure is mounting for the state to retain its ministerial representation in the Federal Executive Council. Whether Bature will be considered remains to be seen.
