President Bola Tinubu has announced series of high-profile appointments to key national agencies, a move that has sparked significant public discourse both within Nigeria and internationally.
These appointments include new leadership for the National Universities Commission (NUC), the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), and the New Partnership for Africa Development (NEPAD).
Additionally, the President renewed the appointment of Fatima Umaru Shinkafi as Executive Secretary of the Solid Minerals Development Fund/Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Initiative (SMDF/PAGMI).
The newly appointed leaders are Prof. Abdullahi Yusuf Ribadu, who will serve as the Executive Secretary of the NUC. Prof. Ribadu is recognized for his expertise in veterinary reproduction and has previously held positions as Vice Chancellor at both the Federal University of Technology, Yola, and Sule Lamido University, Jigawa State. Prof. Salisu Shehu, an academic known for his work in educational and human psychology, has been appointed as the Executive Secretary of the NERDC.
He played a pivotal role in establishing the School of Continuing Education at Bayero University, Kano, and served as Vice-Chancellor of Al-Istiqamah University, Kano. Jabiru Salisu Abdullahi Tsauri, with a Master's degree in International Affairs and Diplomacy from Ahmadu Bello University, has been named the National Coordinator of NEPAD.
These appointments have not gone unnoticed by the public, with many Nigerians expressing their views on social media and other platforms.
A recurring theme in these discussions is the perceived lack of regional diversity among the appointees. Critics argue that the appointments favor certain regions over others, particularly highlighting the underrepresentation of the South South and South East regions. As one commentator noted, "There is favoritism and tribalism in this government. The South South and South East are not favored in appointments."
The debate surrounding these appointments shows broader issues of diversity and inclusivity in Nigerian governance.
While the President's office has emphasized the qualifications and experience of the appointees, stating that their "experience and track record will bring a new sense of commitment, progress, and positive outcomes," the criticism highlights a need for more balanced representation. Addressing these concerns could involve implementing policies that ensure a more equitable distribution of appointments across all regions, thereby fostering a sense of national unity and inclusivity.
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