All eyes on Tinubu’s cabinet

…UK eyes formation of cabinet to strengthen economic relations

…Prioritise merit over political patronage — Arewa Economic Forum

…Appoint experienced technocrat to lead power sector — MAN

By Ibiyemi Mathew

Economic analysts, political onlookers and the international community have their eyes set on the cabinet that will be formed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was declared the President of Nigeria having won a keenly contested election in February which is currently being challenged in the Presidential Election Petition Court (PEPC) by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Mr Peter Obi.

Marred by many controversies, alleged betrayals and trials, President Tinubu’s journey to the highest seat in the land has not been easy and Nigerians, the international community are looking to see how he hopes to make his tenure for the nation  prosperous having attained his lifelong ambition to be Nigeria’s President.

Already, President Tinubu has taken decisive actions regarding the replacement of the Security Service Chiefs, the suspension of the CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele and the suspension of the EFCC Chairman, Abdulrasheed Bawa, but many Nigerians are still in doubt of what more to expect from President Tinubu.

At his investiture ceremony on May 29, 2023 to receive the National Honour of Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR) in Abuja, President Tinubu noted that he is a beneficiary of the support and goodwill of the people of Nigeria, promising that he will not disappoint the trust conferred on him by millions of Nigerians.

In an interview British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, declared that the United Kingdom (UK) is awaiting the formation of President Tinubu’s cabinet to take necessary steps to strengthen economic ties with Nigeria.

Montgomery revealed that the UK Government has identified six interests in which both nations could strengthen cooperation and explore “new areas to build upon for mutual benefits.”

The envoy said the UK is more interested in the bilateral ties with Nigeria as informed by Tinubu’s recent economic decisions.

“We have very long-standing ties being wired by history and we do have a very strong foundation on which to build and I am very optimistic about Nigeria’s direction in the coming years.

“We wish to build on our economic relations in particular and the first decisions by the new administration show that it is going to take big decisions on the economy which I think will give us the opportunity to grow our trade, investment, and economic relations.

“And I think there are a number of areas where the UK Government can step up our diplomacy, our bilateral relations with Nigeria. But of course, we await the appointment of new ministers so that we can have the diplomatic dialogue necessary to lay the grounds for some of those,” Montgomery said.

Meanwhile, the Arewa Economic Forum (AEC) on Sunday urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to prioritise merit in the appointment of Ministers.

The forum Chairman, Ibrahim Yahaya Dandakata made the call at a media interface in Abuja.

Ibrahim stated that the President can ensure that the best individuals are entrusted with the responsibility of serving the nation by placing meritocracy at the forefront of decision-making.

“Nigeria has been battered with economic, social, and political problems, which have consequently resulted in issues of national concern, such as a high rate of unemployment, unprecedented inflation, and disunity among citizens, which metamorphosed into insecurity in some parts of the country.

“The appointment of individuals who possess the necessary competence, track record of probity, diligence, and capabilities is a crucial step toward effective leadership and governance. Nigeria finds itself at a critical juncture and the leadership must be guided by these qualities rather than political patronage and expediency.

“The President, elected on the strength of his track record as a public administrator and an accomplished businessman, has demonstrated unblemished integrity. His reputation as one of the most investigated politicians, having been scrutinised by anti-corruption agencies and found not wanting, is a testament to his commitment to transparency and accountability.

“We urge him to continue preserving this legacy and projecting a positive image of his administration and the nation. As subsequent appointments, including those for ministers and other positions, are considered, we encourage the President to prioritise competence, track record, and merit above any other considerations,” Ibrahim concluded.

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), has also counselled President Bola Tinubu to appoint a committed and incorruptible Minister of Power that has broad experience of the operations and politicking within the power sector.

A statement signed by MAN Director General, Mr Segun Ajayi Kadir on Sunday said that the success of the Electricity Act 2023 signed by the President would largely rest on its effective implementation and the appointment of an experienced technocrat.