The Yilwatda family of Dungung in Kanke Local Government Area of Plateau State has announced plans to confer a revered Tiv traditional chieftaincy title, Zegbar-u-Tiv, on the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof Nentawe Yilwatda, and his wife, Dr Martina Yilwatda.
In a statement shared with Saturday PUNCH by Yilwatda’s Special Adviser, Abimbola Tooki, the honour will be bestowed by the Tor Tiv, Prof. James Iorzua Ayatse, in the presence of the Tiv Traditional Council on Saturday (today) at the J.S. Tarka Stadium, Gboko, Benue State.
According to Tooki, the title is in recognition of the couple’s ‘outstanding contributions to national unity, social harmony, and community development’.
The statement read in part, ‘For the people of Plateau and Benue States, this title symbolises more than a cultural recognition; it represents a deep and enduring bond between two brotherly communities linked by shared values, mutual respect, and a longstanding history of sociocultural interaction.
‘Prof Nentawe’s warm relationship with the Tiv nation, coupled with his reputation as a bridge-builder, reform advocate, and promoter of peaceful coexistence, has endeared him to many across the Middle Belt.
‘Dr Martina Nentawe Yilwatda, equally admired for her impactful work in education, gender empowerment, and public health initiatives, is also being honoured for her devotion to humanitarian causes and her steadfast support for families and vulnerable groups’.
