Pres. Tinubu constitute your cabinet now
If there is any news Nigerians are awaiting under the almost one month old administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, it is the formation of the cabinet members that will help him to realise the dream of renewing hope of Nigerians as promised during the electioneering campaign.
It is the duties of these appointed Ministers and Chairmen of boards and agencies to oversee their respective ministries and agencies and work in line with the implementation of the various policies and programmes of the government for the full benefits of Nigerians.
Many are of the opinion that President Bola Tinubu has not done badly with the steps he had taken so far such as the removal of the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele who is currently standing trial for some corrupt charges as well as the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crime Commission, (EFCC) Rasheed Bawa being investigated by the Department of State Security Service (DSS).
The President has equally made appointment into the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Chief of Staff, Special Advisers as well as appointment of the new Service Chiefs and the Inspector General of Police among others.
Many have said that the former governor of Lagos State from 1999 to 2007 has somehow been putting the right foot forward so far and that he is already showing that his tenure might after all be very promising and one that will help lift the country higher.
However, it has of late been gleaned from impeccable sources the intense lobbying being employed by politicians across the country to position themselves for ministerial jobs from the presidency.
Many of these politicians were said to have practically relocated to Abuja, the country’s Capital jostling for various juicy appointments.
It is against this background that the Arewa Economic Forum (AEC) over the weekend urged President Tinubu to prioritise merit in the appointment of Ministers.
The forum Chairman, Ibrahim Yahaya Dandakata who made the call at a media interface in Abuja 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.
Dandakata had said that Nigeria had 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.
He had opined that 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 saying that as Nigeria finds itself at a critical juncture, the leadership must be guided by these qualities rather than political patronage and expediency.
He said Nigerians had elected Tinubu himself on the strength of his track record as a public administrator and an accomplished businessman, who has demonstrated unblemished integrity and reputed to be one of the most investigated politicians, having been scrutinised by anti-corruption agencies and found not wanting. This he said was a testament to Tinubu’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
While urging the President to continue to preserve this legacy and projecting a positive image of his administration and the nation, Dandakata said in subsequent appointments, including those for ministers and other positions, the President must prioritise competence, track record, and merit above any other considerations.
There can never be anything more altruistic and patriotic to the call above to the President. Luckily, the country is so blessed with gifted individuals across the globe who are willing to serve the country very patriotically.
Tinubu will therefore be doing a lot of good to his determination to renew hope of Nigerians if he will be courageous and patriotic enough to allow merit at least be 80 per cent of why an individual makes his cabinet while the remaining 20 per cent could be due to the inevitable party politics and other intrigues.
The President himself knew that his modest achievements as the governor of Lagos State was not unconnected with his bias for appointing technocrats and people who have distinguished themselves in their chosen fields.
As time ticks away moving towards the 60 days the country’s constitution as amended mandated the President to pick his cabinet members, Nigerians hopefully trust that Tinubu won’t make a mockery of his determination to renew hope of the people with the selection of those who have nothing to offer the country. Mr President, make hay while the sun shines.
