ABUJA – President Bola Tinubu has wasted no time in assembling his team, as he unveiled his first set of appointments, including prominent figures within Nigeria’s political landscape. Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, has been appointed as Chief of Staff, Senator Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia as Deputy Chief of Staff, and George Akume as Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

Gbajabiamila, a seasoned lawyer and politician, has held the position of Speaker of the House of Representatives since 2019. Known for his affiliation with the All Progressives Congress (APC), Gbajabiamila is considered to be close to President Tinubu, thus indicating a strong working relationship between the two.

Hadejia, a former Deputy Governor of Jigawa State, brings a wealth of experience to his role as Deputy Chief of Staff. A lawyer and politician, he has previously served in various governmental positions, including Minister of State for Agriculture and Water Resources. His knowledge and expertise are expected to contribute to the administration’s policy formulation and decision-making processes.

Akume, a former Minister of Special Duties and a seasoned member of the APC, has been appointed as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation. With a background in law and a history of serving in key governmental positions, including as the Governor of Benue State, Akume’s appointment highlights President Tinubu’s focus on appointing individuals with diverse expertise and backgrounds.

While the appointments are seen as an indication of President Tinubu’s commitment to assembling a capable team, they have sparked mixed reactions among the public. Supporters commend the choices, emphasizing that President Tinubu has selected experienced individuals who can effectively contribute to governance. Conversely, critics argue that the appointments primarily reward President Tinubu’s friends and allies, with qualifications potentially taking a backseat.

The impact of these appointments will unfold in due course, and their success will be measured by their ability to drive effective governance and address the pressing challenges facing Nigeria. As President Tinubu’s administration takes its initial steps, these appointments signal the beginning of a new era in Nigerian politics.

• Tinubu Assumes Presidency Amidst High Expectations
• Nigeria divided by disputed election; economy faces headwinds
• Outgoing President Buhari’s tenure sees insecurity spread
• Africa’s largest economy grapples with division and challenges

Bola Tinubu is set to be sworn in as Nigeria’s president on Monday, although his victory in the February election is mired in controversy and overshadowed by the pressing need to tackle economic and security issues that have worsened under the administration of his predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari.

The outcome of the election is still being disputed, with two of Tinubu’s primary opponents raising fraud allegations and presenting their arguments before a tribunal. However, a ruling on the matter is not expected until September. As Buhari, a reserved former military leader, exits the stage, Africa’s largest economy and most populous nation remains deeply divided.

The February election had ignited hopes among young voters who sought a departure from the dominance of the two parties that have controlled Nigerian politics since the end of military rule in 1999. However, what was promised as the country’s freest and fairest election to date ended in frustration for many.

Tinubu, a member of Buhari’s All Progressives Congress who has wielded significant influence behind the scenes, secured victory with only 37% of the vote, the lowest share since 1999.

As he assumes the presidency, Tinubu faces a multitude of challenges. Nigeria’s economy is grappling with soaring debt, foreign exchange and fuel shortages, a weakened national currency, high inflation levels, inadequate power supply, and declining oil production due to theft and underinvestment. Additionally, protectionist economic policies and interventions in foreign currency markets have unsettled investors.

Buhari defended his record, citing the development of new infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and airports, as well as the protective trade policies that lay the groundwork for future growth. He also highlighted his government’s efforts in combating Islamist insurgents in the northeast over a 13-year period, during which military expenditures were increased.

However, insecurity has spread throughout the country, leaving many Nigerians feeling increasingly unsafe. The northwest grapples with rampant killings and kidnappings for ransom, while the southeast faces separatist movements and gang violence. Clashes between farmers and herders persist in the Middle Belt states, exacerbating tensions in Nigeria’s hinterland.

Opponents remain sceptical of Buhari’s claims, viewing him as a representative of the old guard that hindered Nigeria’s progress. They see Tinubu as part of the same political establishment, an entitled “godfather” who proclaimed that it was his turn to lead after endorsing Buhari’s candidacy in 2015.

As Bola Tinubu assumes the presidency, all eyes will be on his ability to address the country’s economic challenges and security concerns. The deeply divided nation seeks leadership that can bridge gaps, foster unity, and navigate Nigeria through these tumultuous times. Tinubu’s presidency will be closely watched, as he inherits a country grappling with deep-rooted divisions and mounting socio-economic problems.

The state of Nigeria’s economy presents a significant hurdle for Tinubu. The country is burdened with a staggering debt, dwindling foreign exchange reserves, and persistent fuel shortages. The value of the naira has weakened, exacerbating inflationary pressures and making it increasingly difficult for ordinary Nigerians to afford basic necessities. The energy sector is plagued by inadequate power supply, hindering industrial growth and stifling business productivity.

To address these pressing economic challenges, Tinubu will need to implement comprehensive reforms and attract foreign investment. His policies must prioritize diversification, encouraging sectors beyond oil to thrive and fostering an environment conducive to entrepreneurship and job creation. Additionally, he will need to tackle corruption head-on, promoting transparency and accountability in public governance to restore confidence both domestically and internationally.

The security situation in Nigeria is equally critical. The country faces multifaceted threats, ranging from insurgencies in the northeast to separatist movements and communal clashes in various regions. Tinubu must prioritize the safety of all Nigerians, working towards the restoration of peace and stability. Enhancing the capacity of security forces, improving intelligence gathering, and fostering dialogue among different communities will be essential steps towards achieving lasting peace.

Furthermore, Tinubu’s leadership should prioritize inclusivity and ensure that the concerns and aspirations of all Nigerians are addressed. He must bridge the gap between different ethnic, religious, and socio-economic groups, promoting a sense of national unity and belonging. By fostering an environment of equal opportunity, promoting social justice, and championing good governance, Tinubu can begin to heal the divisions that have plagued the country.

As Tinubu assumes the presidency, the hopes and expectations of Nigerians are high. However, the road ahead is challenging, and the success of his tenure will be measured by his ability to enact meaningful reforms, revive the economy, and restore security. The coming months will reveal the extent of Tinubu’s commitment to addressing the nation’s pressing issues and steering Nigeria towards a brighter and more prosperous future.

• • Buhari defends his legacy of credible elections and fair votes in Nigeria
  • Tinubu faces challenges as opposition rivals dispute his victory
  • Buhari addresses concerns over the economy

In his final address before handing over power to his successor, President Muhammadu Buhari of Nigeria stood firm in defending his economic record and the outcome of the disputed presidential election. Despite criticism from many Nigerians who claim that the economy has worsened during his tenure, Buhari asserted that he leaves behind a legacy of credible and fair votes, cementing the progress of democracy in Africa’s most populous nation.

The victory of President-elect Bola Tinubu, who ran on Buhari’s ruling party’s ticket, is currently facing challenges from his closest opposition rivals. On Tuesday, a tribunal will commence hearings on the main arguments of the election petition. Buhari expressed confidence in Tinubu’s candidacy, stating that he is the best candidate to emerge from the election.

Acknowledging the challenges that Tinubu will face upon assuming office, including anaemic economic growth, record debt, and shrinking oil output, Buhari defended his government’s economic decisions. He emphasized that the measures taken to reset the economy, albeit causing temporary pain and suffering, were necessary for the overall well-being of the country. However, Nigerians continue to grapple with double-digit inflation, which has eroded savings and wages, presenting a significant concern for the incoming president.

The Nigerian economy has been plagued by protectionist economic policies and foreign currency interventions, resulting in dollar shortages and investor apprehension. President Buhari recognized the difficulties faced by Nigerians and assured them that his government had made difficult choices to address these challenges.

As President Buhari bids farewell, his legacy in ensuring credible elections and addressing economic concerns becomes a focal point for the incoming administration. The transition of power to President-elect Tinubu will undoubtedly be met with high expectations as Nigeria seeks solutions to revitalize its economy and improve the lives of its citizens.