Former Senate Leader Ali Ndume has publicly backed President Bola Tinubu over his latest federal agency appointments, describing them as deliberate steps to address northern concerns. The lawmaker, representing Borno South, said the appointments were “timely and responsive,” adding that Tinubu’s choices reflect a leader who listens to genuine agitations.
Northern Interests Gain Attention
The appointees include Lydia Musa as Chairperson of the Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority, Jamilu Aliyu as Chairman of the National Educational Research and Development Council, and Yahuza Inuwa as Chairman of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria.
Others are Sanusi Musa (SAN), appointed as Chairman of the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution, and Muhammad Babangida, son of former military ruler Ibrahim Babangida, who now chairs the restructured Bank of Agriculture.
Ndume noted that Kano and Kaduna received multiple slots, while Sokoto and Zamfara secured one each, proving Tinubu’s consideration of northern political realities.
Ndume Backs Tinubu’s Agency Appointments but Calls for Fairness
Ndume commended Tinubu’s approach but urged him to extend similar attention to the South East. He warned that the narrative of excluding an entire region could damage national unity.
“The wrong narrative that the South East has been abandoned should not be allowed to fester,” Ndume said. He added that denying the region adequate representation breaches the Federal Character principle enshrined in the 1999 Constitution.
Ndume Backs Tinubu’s Agency Appointments While Urging Inclusivity
Ndume acknowledged Tinubu’s efforts but maintained that true leadership must ensure inclusiveness across all regions. “While I acknowledge Mr. President’s steadfastness with these appointments, we are hopeful that subsequent nominations will reflect broader national inclusiveness,” he said.
The lawmaker insisted that every part of Nigeria deserves a sense of belonging, especially after the sacrifices made during the last elections.
Ndume Backs Tinubu’s Agency Appointments
Ndume’s endorsement of Tinubu’s appointments highlights growing northern satisfaction, but his call for balance signals that inclusivity remains a sensitive issue. With political tension around regional appointments, Tinubu will face pressure to ensure future nominations reflect Nigeria’s diversity.
