News

Ministerial portfolios of ‘square pegs in round holes’

Published

1 year ago

August 21, 2023

admin

By Ehichioya Ezomon

If some Nigerians were sad about the kind of nominees President Bola Tinubu picked for his cabinet, many more were heavy-hearted over the portfolios assigned to the ministers.
The composition of the cabinet was a mis-match in relation to some of the ministers’ educational and professional attainments and development, and experiences on the job over the years.
Hence Nigerians deployed words, such as depression, despondency, disappointment, discontent, disenchantment, displeasure, dismay, disillusionment, and dissatisfaction, to express their feelings over Tinubu’s allocation of portfolios to the ministers.
The President – touted as the best head-hunter among his peer-governors between 1999 and 2007 – was expected to be different from his predecessors in uninspiring appointments and allocation of portfolios.
Many had hoped Tinubu would bring his famed pedigree of selecting ‘A List’ administrators in Lagos State to bear at the federal level, to tackle the myriad socio-economic problems challenging Nigerians in his under three-month-old government.
Unlike the expeditious removal of petrol subsidy and floating of the Naira that sent prices of goods and services sky-high across all sectors – with the government struggling to provide palliatives to cushion the effects – the ministerial list was late in coming because of the President’s hedging.
Pre-his inauguration on May 29, Tinubu’s presented as single-minded and “uncrackable” under whatever guise. And he lived up to that billing from the primaries through the campaigns and election, and the transition to assuming power.
He topped his “invincibility” with some bold policies on subsidy removals and floating of the Naira. That’s why it’s befuddling that the President hid from lobbyists – “to avoid undue influence” – in rolling out a list of ministers that would satisfy expectations of Nigerians.
Tinubu, speaking through Senate Majority Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele (APC-Ekiti Central) on July 25, even asked Senators, under Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Nigerians for prayers, to direct his thoughts and decisions aright.
The President’s words: “Let me tell you, and you must encourage me. I need to make myself unavailable for the next 48 hours because a correspondence must come to the Senate, a very crucial correspondence.
“So, Mr (Senate) President, pray for me. You should tell the rest of Nigerians to pray for me, to be able to make the right decision within the next 24 hours.”
Still, many had thought Tinubu would break with the Nigerian “protocol,” and start to tease up his ministerial nominees piecemeal – along with their portfolios – as is the practice in diverse countries, particularly in the United States.
Before the list gets to Parliament, informed citizens would’ve known and “scrutinised” the nominees for the portfolios to be assigned to them. This aids the work of the legislators in approving the nominees.
Though it creates more drama and anticipation, involement of the public in “vetting” nominees helps to expose their quality in terms of character, capacity, competence and experience, and their fit for designated portfolios.
And it’s easier to get people’s buy-in into government’s policies and programmes if given the chance to assist in shaping the content of the cabinet.
So, delaying, and hoarding the ministerial list that he presented in two batches didn’t seem to help the President – nor meet the expectations of Nigerians – when he submitted the first batch of 28 nominees on July 27 to the Senate for screening and confirmation.
It’s the same yawns and sighs when Tinubu released the second batch of nominees dominated by former Governors, party chieftains and personalities hardly known to Nigerians as capable of delivering on the job.
Nigerians had something to say – positive or negative – about the list. But generally, they gave the President some leeway, hoping he’d rectify observed “anomalies” in the list at the stage of assigning portfolios to the ministers.
But what did Nigerians see when Tinubu allocated portfolios to 45 of 48 ministers? Many classified it as “putting square pegs in round holes,” with some ministers lacking the requisite professionalism, competency and experience!
They argued it wasn’t markedly different from former President Muhammadu Buhari’s cabinet – formed after a six-month delay – with the ministers majorly as low picks, resulting in gross failure of many on the job.
Tinubu’s reasons for allocating the respective portfolios, but peruse below and evaluate if the President’s passed his acclaimed head-hunting ability to assemble the “very best” for his cabinet:
Nyesom Wike (Lawyer/Rivers), Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. Dave Umahi (Civil Engineer/Ebonyi), Minister of Works. Adegboyega Oyetola (lnsurer/Osun), Minister of Transportation. Mohammed Badaru (Accountant/Jigawa),
Minister of Defence. Bello Matawalle (Teacher/Zamfara), Minister of State, Defence. Atiku Bagudu (Economist/Kebbi), Minister of Budget and Economic Planning. Ibrahim Geidam (Accountant/Yobe), Minister of Police Affairs. Simon Lalong (Lawyer/Plateau), Minister of Labour and Employment.
Wale Edun (Economist/Ogun), Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy. Lateef Fagbemi, SAN (Lawyer/Kwara), Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice. Sa’Idu A. Alkali (Economist/Gombe), Minister of Interior. Yusuf M. Tuggar (Prof.-Int’l Relations/Bauchi), Minister of Foreign Affairs. Ali Pate (Prof.-Medical Doctor/Bauchi), Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare. Tahir Maman, SAN (Prof.-Lawyer/Adamawa), Minister of Education. Muhammed Idris (English-Media Owner/Niger), Minister of Information and National Orientation Zephaniah Jisalo (Educationist/FCT), Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Govermental Affairs. Festus Keyamo, SAN (Lawyer/Delta), Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development. Shuaibu A Audu (System Analyst/Kogi), Minister of Steel Development. Doris Anite (Medical Doctor-Financial Expert/Imo), Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment. Uche Nnaji (Politician/Enugu), Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology. Bunmi Tunji (Electronics-Communications Engineer/Ondo), Minister of Marine and Blue Economy. Bosun Tijani Ph.D (Economist-Systems Developer/Lagos), Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy. Adedayo Adelabu (Accountant/Oyo), Minister of Power. Ahmed M. Dangiwa (Architect/Katsina),
Minister of Housing and Urban Development.
Dele Alake (Pol. Scientist-Journalist Ekiti), Minister of Solid Minerals Development.
Lola Ade-John (Computer-System Analyst/Lagos), Minister of Tourism. Joseph Utsev (Prof.-Civil-Water Engineer/Benue), Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation. Abubakar Kyari (Business Admin/Borno), Minister of Agriculture and Food Security. Uju Kennedy Ohanenye (Lawyer/Anambra), Minister of Women Affairs. Abubakar Momoh (Civil Engineer/Edo), Minister of Youth. Betta Edu Ph.D (Medical Doctor/Cross River), Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. John Enoh (Pharmacologist/Cross River), Minister of Sports Development. Hannatu Musawa
(Lawyer/Katsina), Minister of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy.
Yusuf T. Sununu (Medical Doctor/Kebbi), Minister of State, Education. Nkiruka Onyejeocha (Shipper/Abia), Minister of State, Labour and Employment. Ekperikpe Ekpo (Politician/Akwa Ibom), Minister of State, Gas Resources. Heineken Lokpobiri Ph.D (Lawyer/Bayelsa), Minister of State, Petroleum Resources. Abdullahi T. Gwarzo (Textile Engineer/Kano), Minister of State, Housing and Urban Development. Ishak Salako (Medical Doctor/Ogun), Minister of State, Environment and Ecological Management.
Tunji Alausa (Medical Doctor/Lagos), Minister of State, Health and Social Welfare. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi (Vet. Doctor/Niger), Minister of Sta te, Agriculture and Food Security. Mairiga Mahmoud Ph.D (Lawyer/Kano), Minister of State, Federal Capital Territory. Bello M. Goronyo (Lawyer/Sokoto), Minister of State, Water Resources and Sanitation. Maigari Ahmadu (Lawyer/Taraba), Minister of State, Steel Development. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim (Sociologist/Nasarawa), Minister of State, Police Affairs.
Except three slots – and the Petroleum Resources portfolio – the President’s done with the cabinet. What remains is for the ministers to justify the confidence Tinubu’s reposed in them, and discharge their duties to the expectations of Nigerians!

Mr Ezomon, Journalist and Media Consultant, writes from Lagos, Nigeria.

News

FG Hits Back at Emir Sanusi’s Economic Reform Remarks: ‘We Don’t Need Your Approval’

Published

2 days ago

January 16, 2025

admin

Bola Tinubu and Sanusi Lamido Sanusi

The Federal Government has delivered a sharp rebuttal to Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II’s recent remarks about President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, expressing disappointment over his refusal to endorse the government’s actions.

Sanusi, a former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor, had voiced his hesitation to speak in support of the reforms, stating, “I have decided not to speak about the economy or the reforms, nor to explain anything regarding them. If I explained, it would only help this government, and I don’t want to help this government.” His comments were made at a public event in Lagos, where he also indicated that he would withhold his explanations despite the significant economic impact of the reforms.

In response, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, acknowledged that Sanusi’s decision to withhold support for the government’s economic agenda was his personal choice, but expressed frustration at his stance.
“It is rather curious for someone from an institution that champions transparency and integrity to openly admit to withholding the truth due to personal interests,” Idris remarked.
The Minister stressed that while everyone has the right to their opinion, the reforms under President Tinubu were designed to confront deep-rooted economic challenges, requiring bold and transformative actions. These reforms, including the unification of exchange rates and the removal of the fuel subsidy, are vital steps to secure Nigeria’s economic future.
Idris addressed Sanusi’s acknowledgment that the current economic pains were a necessary result of years of mismanagement, stating that these reforms are already showing positive results. “The unification of exchange rates has instilled investor confidence, leading to increased foreign reserves and better protection from external shocks,” he noted.

The government also highlighted the positive outlook for Nigeria’s economy, pointing to World Bank projections showing an upward trend in GDP and improvements in key sectors like infrastructure, education, and healthcare.

While expressing disappointment over Sanusi’s sudden criticism, Idris emphasized that Nigeria’s path to recovery requires unity and collective effort. “It is disheartening that reforms which were previously endorsed by experts like Emir Sanusi are now being subtly undermined,” he said.

Idris urged leaders like the Emir to set aside personal and partisan interests and work towards the greater good of the country. “This is a pivotal time for Nigeria, and what is needed is collaboration, not division,” he concluded.

The Federal Government reiterated that it remains committed to advancing economic reforms and fostering inclusivity, with a focus on long-term growth. The administration remains open to dialogue with all well-meaning stakeholders while steadfastly putting the country’s interests first.

News

Ex-REDAN President Warns Developers of Moure Consult Fraud, urges FG Support on Housing

Published

2 days ago

January 16, 2025

admin

By Ben Ogbemudia, Abuja

The immediate past President of the Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN), Dr. Aliyu Oroji Wamakko, has sounded an alarm to estate developers nationwide about the fraudulent tendencies of Moure Consult Ltd, under the leadership of its Managing Director, Sadiq Dalhatu Ado.
Speaking in Abuja, Dr. Wamakko revealed a surge in complaints from developers, particularly in the Federal Capital Territory, accusing Moure Consult Ltd of breach of agreements and unfulfilled promises.

According to Wamakko, many victims of the company have lodged formal petitions with relevant agencies, citing dubious financial practices.
He disclosed that in February 2024, Moure Consult Ltd approached various developers with a proposal to secure loan facilities for infrastructure development. The firm touted its expertise and partnerships, luring developers into agreements under false pretenses.
“Developers met all conditions laid out by Moure Consult Ltd with the expectation of receiving funds within 45 working days. But to date, no funds have been disbursed. Instead, developers have been subjected to excuses, missed deadlines, and evasive tactics,” Wamakko said.
The former REDAN president noted that victims were promised that funds, allegedly placed in fixed deposits, would be available by May 30, 2024. However, the deadline passed, and subsequent extensions yielded no results. Instead, developers received vague alternatives, including agricultural proposals and state contracts, which Wamakko described as distractions.
He condemned these actions, calling them a betrayal of trust that tarnishes the real estate industry’s credibility.
Amidst the warning, Wamakko urged the Federal Government to support the private sector in achieving affordable housing through the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI). He called for deliberate funding under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Housing agenda to bridge Nigeria’s housing deficit.
“The government must create avenues for accessible financing that empower reputable developers to deliver affordable housing to Nigerians. It’s time to address the systemic barriers affecting both developers and citizens seeking shelter,” Wamakko emphasized.
This clarion call serves as a dual message: to warn against fraudulent practices and to advocate for proactive government intervention in the real estate sector.

News

Neglect of War Veterans, Families Clouds Armed Forces Remembrance Day

Published

2 days ago

January 16, 2025

admin

As Nigeria marked the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, voices of discontent from war veterans, widows, and civil society organizations took center stage, highlighting the neglect faced by those who sacrificed for the nation’s peace and security.
The solemn event, held across various locations, honored fallen heroes, but the lamentations of widows and retired servicemen revealed the systemic failures in supporting these individuals and their families.
At the Tafawa Balewa Square in Lagos, Mrs. Oluwaseyi Iliya, leader of the “Wives of Fallen Heroes” group, expressed disappointment with the Lagos State government. She criticized the lack of meaningful support for military widows, noting that promises made in previous years had not materialized.

“Military widows are suffering. Our husbands died serving this nation, but we’ve been abandoned,” she said. Iliya recounted a 2024 initiative where some widows received foodstuffs and grinding machines, but no further support followed.
Retired Col. Nasiru Salami, a 76-year-old civil war veteran, echoed similar sentiments, recounting his own struggles with unpaid pensions and unfulfilled promises. Speaking on Channels Television, Salami said, “I cannot recommend the Nigerian Army to my children because of how poorly we’ve been treated.”
Salami, who served on the Biafran frontlines during the Civil War, revealed that over 24,000 veterans in Lagos are still awaiting their war bonuses, more than five decades after the conflict ended.
Prominent Nigerians, including Peter Obi, and organizations like the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), have called for immediate government action. Obi urged the Federal Government to prioritize healthcare, education, and timely payment of benefits for military personnel and their families.
“These measures will inspire greater commitment and reinforce the dedication of our armed forces,” Obi stated on social media.
CISLAC’s Executive Director, Auwal Rafsanjani, called for national recognition of fallen heroes’ families, emphasizing empowerment programs and scholarships for widows and children as essential steps.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing President Bola Tinubu at the national parade in Abuja, acknowledged the sacrifices of Nigeria’s military personnel. He urged Nigerians to contribute to the welfare of the families of fallen heroes, while Lagos State Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat called for public support to alleviate their hardships.

Despite these appeals, many widows and veterans remain skeptical, viewing these gestures as hollow without tangible action.
As the nation reflects on the sacrifices of its armed forces, the voices of widows and veterans underscore the need for systemic reform. Beyond wreath-laying ceremonies, Nigeria must honor its fallen heroes by ensuring their families are not forgotten and their sacrifices are truly appreciated.
The Armed Forces Remembrance Day, while a solemn occasion, must inspire action to address the plight of those who gave their all for the nation’s peace and security.