President Bola Tinubu has wasted no time in making key appointments shortly after his inauguration. Femi Gbajabiamila, the outgoing Speaker of the House of Representatives, has been appointed as the Chief of Staff, while Ibrahim Hadejia, a former deputy governor of Jigawa State, will serve as the Deputy Chief of Staff.
Additionally, Senator George Akume, the immediate past Minister of Special Duties and former Benue State Governor, has been named as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation. The State House Director of Information, Abiodun Oladunjoye, released a statement revealing these appointments.
Gbajabiamila expressed gratitude for being chosen as the Chief of Staff and pledged to give his best in assisting the President. He announced that he would assume his duties on June 14, 2023, following the inauguration of the 10th Assembly.
The Chief Press Secretary of Kogi State, Onogwu Mohammed, conveyed Governor Yahaya Bello's congratulations to Gbajabiamila and Akume, highlighting Gbajabiamila's legislative experience and trustworthiness. Former Osun State Governor, Adegboyega Oyetola, also extended his congratulations to the appointees, commending President Tinubu for his selections.
The appointments have garnered positive reactions from various quarters.
Tajudeen Abbas, the All Progressives Congress' preferred candidate for the Speakership of the House of Representatives, praised Tinubu's decision, emphasizing that Gbajabiamila was the right choice.
Professor Abubakar Sulaiman, Director-General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies, expressed confidence in Gbajabiamila's ability to excel in his new role.
The Speaker of the Kaduna State House of Assembly, Yusuf Zailani, commended Tinubu for appointing Gbajabiamila, highlighting his diplomatic, administrative, and academic expertise. The Northern Christian Youth Professionals and the Middle Belt Forum also lauded the appointments of Akume and Gbajabiamila, respectively.
However, Bitrus Pogu, President of the Middle Belt Forum, questioned the legitimacy of Tinubu's presidency and expressed skepticism towards the appointments.
Abdullahi Kebbi, the National President of the Joint National Association for Persons with Disabilities, called for the inclusion of disabled individuals in the President's cabinet.
Similarly, women's groups, including Women in Management, Business, and Public Service, alongside numerous NGOs and civil society organizations, urged President Tinubu to prioritize the inclusion of women in leadership positions.
As President Tinubu's administration takes shape, these appointments and reactions set the stage for the challenges and expectations that lie ahead for the new government.
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