Southwest youth group urges Tinubu to retain outstanding Buhari appointees

A group, Southwest Professional Youths Network, has urged President Bola Tinubu to retain some “outstanding” appointees in the immediate past administration of Muhammadu Buhari.

The group made this known in a statement made available to The Guardian on Tuesday, a day after the inauguration of President Tinubu at the Eagle Square in Abuja.

In a comprehensive assessment of the situation, convener of the group, Comrade Seun Adeaanu, noted that since Tinubu’s administration and that of Buhari are from the same party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), it is only fair that the new president should retain those who have proven themselves in the Buhari administration.

In a comprehensive assessment of the situation, the Southwest Professional Youths Network advised President Tinubu to clearly define the objectives of his administration in this new dispensation. By setting a clear goal, the group feels the President can provide a focused direction for his government and ensure that efforts are aligned towards achieving the desired outcomes.

To develop a comprehensive solution, the group emphasizes the importance of engaging relevant stakeholders, including experts, organizations, and serving appointees of the federal government. Their input, insights, and expertise will provide a holistic perspective and contribute to developing effective strategies for the new administration.

The group further recommends that President Tinubu assess various policy options aligned with the Renewed Hope mantra of his administration. It is crucial to evaluate the potential impact, feasibility, and long-term sustainability of each option. This analysis should consider both short-term remedies and long-term solutions to address Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges at their root causes.

Transparency and effective communication are also highlighted as crucial aspects of successful leadership. The Southwest Professional Youths Network advises President Tinubu to communicate openly and transparently with the public, providing regular updates on progress, challenges, and decisions to address any issues that may arise.

Regarding the continuity of government, the Southwest Professional Youths Network suggests that President Tinubu should identify outstanding appointees from the previous administration of President Buhari and retain them as a reward for their hard work and dedication. By doing so, President Tinubu can build upon their achievements and ensure a smooth transition, allowing his administration to hit the ground running.

Merit-based appointments are strongly encouraged by the Southwest Professional Youths Network. The group urges President Tinubu to prioritize the appointment of individuals based on their qualifications and track records rather than succumbing to political pressure. They emphasize that the interests of Nigeria should be paramount in the appointment process.

The Southwest Professional Youths Network specifically identifies several exceptional appointees from the Buhari administration who have made significant contributions to their respective agencies. Notable individuals include Engr. Ahmad Salihijo Ahmad, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Rural Electrification Agency, who has achieved remarkable milestones in delivering clean and sustainable energy to rural areas. Additionally, Brig-Gen Buba Marwa, the Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, and Mele Kyari, the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, are recognized for their notable accomplishments in combating drug abuse and implementing reforms in the oil and gas sector, respectively.

Prince Paul Ikonne, the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive of the National Agricultural Land Development Authority, is also acknowledged for his successful efforts in promoting agricultural development, creating employment opportunities, and improving living standards in rural areas.

The statement from the Southwest Professional Youths Network concludes by expressing the group’s commitment to supporting President Tinubu’s administration and collaborating closely with the government to achieve shared goals.