The Governor of Benue State, His Excellency Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has extended heartfelt condolences to the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, and his family following the passing of his mother, Mama Lydia Yilwatda.
Mama Lydia Yilwatda, aged 83, passed away on Sunday, August 17, 2025, at the Jos University Teaching Hospital after a brief illness. In a condolence message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, MNIPR, Governor Alia described her death as a monumental loss, not only to her immediate family and Plateau State but also to Nigeria as a whole.
The Governor praised Mama Lydia as a virtuous woman who embodied humility, resilience, and selfless service. He highlighted her indelible legacy in the Dungung community of Kanke in Plateau State, her contributions to the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN), and her role alongside her late husband, Reverend Toma Goshwe Yilwatda, in nurturing their children with strong values.
Governor Alia urged Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda and the entire Yilwatda family to find solace in the remarkable life their matriarch lived and the enduring legacies she left behind. He prayed for strength for the family to bear the loss and for Mama Lydia’s soul to find eternal rest.
The Benue State Governor also assured the family of his prayers and solidarity during this period of grief, noting that Mama Lydia’s legacy of faith, service, and impact would continue to inspire generations.
