President Bola Tinubu’s choice of Femi Gbajabiamila as chief of staff (CoS) is seen as a strategic move to avoid the challenges experienced during the first term of former President Muhammadu Buhari, particularly regarding the influential role of the late Abba Kyari as CoS. According to a source in the Presidency, Tinubu was keen to select a CoS with specific qualities, experience, and a proven track record to navigate the complexities of Nigerian politics effectively.
The source highlighted that Tinubu closely observed Gbajabiamila’s performance during his tenure as the Speaker of the House of Representatives from 2019 to 2023. Gbajabiamila’s experience in managing various national challenges and his ability to handle national strikes and negotiate with unions made him stand out among contenders for the CoS role. His commitment to competence and experience aligned with Tinubu’s vision for effective leadership in Nigeria.
The choice of Gbajabiamila also became more urgent after the removal of the fuel subsidy, which initially raised concerns about national stability. Tinubu needed someone loyal and capable of supporting the president in maintaining calm and peace during challenging times.
Additionally, Gbajabiamila’s hard work and ability to use government resources to support the people were factors that influenced his selection. His involvement in campaign activities and the timely signing of the Students Loan Bill demonstrated his commitment to the president’s vision and earned him political capital.
Overall, Tinubu’s meticulous selection process reflects his determination to deliver effective leadership and navigate Nigeria’s complex political landscape successfully. He values competence, posture, and capacity when making key appointments and aims to assemble a team capable of addressing the nation’s pressing challenges.