The Arewa Economic Forum, AEC, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to shun mediocrity and other political considerations in making appointments into public offices.
President Tinubu’s recent appointments have come under criticism in some quarters for being lopsided.
The president, last week, sacked former Service Chiefs and appointed new ones. His action was commended by not a few Nigerians who said the appointments cut across the nation’s geo-political zones.
The new Service Chiefs are Maj. Gen. C.G Musa, Chief of Defence Staff
Maj. Gen. T. A Lagbaja, Chief of Army Staff, Rear Admiral E. A Ogalla Chief of Naval Staff, AVM H.B Abubakar Chief of Air Staff, DIG Kayode Egbetokun Acting Inspector-General of Police, and Maj. Gen. EPA Undiandeye Chief of Defense Intelligence.
The AEC said any further appointment by the president for the positions of ministers, advisers, and heads of government agencies should be based on merit rather than other primordial considerations.
The group Chairman, Ibrahim Yahaya Dandakata who spoke to journalists at a press conference in Abuja, the nation’s capital, commended President Tinubu for following federal character in his appointment of service chiefs.
The same model should be followed in other appointments soon to be made by the president, he said, adding that the country needs competent hands for economic turnaround.
Dandakata said, “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 an unblemished integrity. His reputation as one of the most investigated politicians, having been scrutinized 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 prioritize competence, track record, and merit above any other considerations.
“The Arewa Economic Forum remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote good governance, accountability, and the welfare of the Nigerian people. We stand ready to work alongside the government in its efforts to build a prosperous and inclusive Nigeria.”
