Tinubu Honours Late Mother of APC Chair Lydia Goshwe
From Tongnaan Bawa Jos
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid tribute to the late Mama Lydia Yilwatda Goshwe, mother of the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC describing her as a devoted mother, a humanitarian, and a pillar of faith.
Speaking at her funeral service at the Church of Christ in Nation headquarters in Jos, the Plateau State capital on Saturday, President Tinubu thanked the church and community for their strong faith and traditions, saying he was honoured to join in celebrating Mama’s life. He emphasized unity and love among Nigerians, saying “hate is not an option; love is what we must continue to preach.”
He prayed for God’s comfort upon the Goshwe family and for the peaceful repose of Mama Lydia’s soul.
In his remark Plateau State Governor, Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang of expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for honoring the state with his presence at the funeral service of Mama Lydia Yilwatda Goshwe.
He noted that the state had continued to enjoy the care and encouragement of the First Family, describing the visits of the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, as deeply touching and reassuring.
Governor Mutfwang seized the opportunity to brief the President on ongoing efforts to align Plateau State with the Renewed Hope Agenda, citing investments in agriculture, livestock development, and infrastructure as part of his administration’s priorities.
On security, the Governor lamented the decades-long challenges faced by communities across the state but thanked President Tinubu for the federal government’s support in reducing attacks in recent times. He reiterated his determination to foster unity among the diverse people of Plateau and to lead with fairness and inclusivity.
Governor Mutfwang also congratulated the newly appointed APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, describing the appointment as a great honor to Plateau State.
He assured the President of his readiness to work closely with the new party leader to promote the state’s interests at the national level, while appealing for more federal appointments for qualified Plateau sons and daughters.
The Governor concluded by praying for God’s guidance and protection over the President, expressing optimism that under his leadership, Nigeria will overcome poverty and move toward prosperity.
In an emotionally charged tribute, Professor Yilwatda reflected on his mother’s remarkable strength, resilience, and faith in God, describing her as a woman who defied medical predictions and lived an extraordinary life of service and sacrifice.
> “At age 36, my mother was diagnosed with an illness and was told she had only two years to live. But God added forty-seven more years to her life. She was a hardworking woman who supported the family even when my father earned very little. 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.” He said.
Prof. Nentawe, who is also the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) shared fond memories of his late mother’s tireless efforts to sustain the family, even through illness, and her quiet acts of kindness to neighbors and those in need.
He likened his mother’s story to that of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s late mother, drawing parallels between their strength, industry, and unwavering dedication to family.
The APC Chairman also used the occasion to express deep gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, the Progressive Governors Forum, members of the National Assembly, and the government and people of Plateau State, led by Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, for their support and presence at the funeral.
He ended his speech with a heartfelt promise to uphold the trust reposed in him by the President and the party, recalling his mother’s last words of prayer and encouragement.
The service was attended by top political figures, clergy, and community leaders, was not only a moment of farewell but also a celebration of a woman whose life of faith, resilience, and humility left an indelible mark on her family and all who knew her.
