The recent announcement of board appointments by President Tinubu, including figures such as Ganduje, Magnus Abe, and Afikuyomi, has sparked significant debate among Nigerians. While some see these appointments as rewards for political loyalty, others, including Dr. Tofunmi Ogunronbi, an advocate for good governance and sustainable development, have raised concerns about the implications of such decisions on national progress.
Dr. Ogunronbi, in his critique of the appointments, emphasized that Nigeria’s governance structure appears to be caught in a cycle of recycling the same individuals for different roles, often at the expense of competence and productivity. According to him, Nigeria is a country blessed with talented and diverse professionals across various fields, yet the nation continues to prioritize political loyalty over merit and expertise.
Recycling Appointments: A Threat to National Productivity
Dr. Ogunronbi pointed out that consistently reappointing the same individuals in different capacities not only limits opportunities for others but also hampers productivity. “When the same hands are rotated between roles, especially roles unrelated to their expertise, it creates a leadership vacuum. It undermines innovation and growth in critical sectors,” he stated.
He also observed a worrying imbalance in the allocation of appointments. “It is concerning that some states have been given more than three appointments, while others have just one. This disparity raises questions about equity and inclusiveness in governance,” he noted.
Dr. Ogunronbi cited instances where appointments often mismatch qualifications with responsibilities. For example, placing a lawyer as the chairman of a medical center board is not only counterproductive but also indicative of a lack of deliberate planning. “Such an appointee may only act as a figurehead because they lack the requisite knowledge to lead effectively in a specialized field. This approach does little to advance the goals of the institution and leaves critical gaps in governance,” he added.
The Need to Cut Political Costs
Dr. Ogunronbi raised concerns about the financial implications of political appointments, noting that many of these positions come with significant remuneration, draining the nation’s resources. He called for the elimination of unnecessary political appointments, advocating instead for a more streamlined governance structure.
“In sectors where boards are necessary, the minister overseeing the parastatal should automatically serve as the chairman, while directors and key sector experts act as board members. This would not only save costs but also ensure that governance is handled by individuals with the requisite knowledge and experience,” Dr. Ogunronbi explained.
He argued that Nigeria cannot afford to keep creating political positions simply to accommodate loyalists, especially when the country is grappling with pressing challenges such as poverty, unemployment, and inadequate infrastructure. “We need to channel these funds into development projects that directly impact the lives of Nigerians rather than sustaining a bloated political class,” he said.
An Appeal to President Tinubu
Dr. Ogunronbi appealed directly to President Tinubu, urging him to be deliberate about building a new Nigeria. “I have always known President Tinubu as a bridge builder and a leader who excels in discovering and empowering capable hands. Now is the time to explore the opportunity of raising new leaders in government—people who will add real value to the growth of our nation,” he stated.
He called on the President to prioritize equity, merit, and inclusiveness in future appointments, ensuring that every state is fairly represented and that positions are filled by individuals with the expertise and passion to drive progress. “Building a new Nigeria requires deliberate efforts to engage fresh, innovative minds who are ready to serve with dedication and purpose,” he added.
Building a New Nigeria Through Deliberate Action
Dr. Ogunronbi stressed that Nigeria must embrace a deliberate strategy for governance that prioritizes competence and merit over political allegiances. He called for a system that places passionate and qualified individuals in positions where they can drive progress.
“The time has come for us to rethink our governance structure. Appointments should be based on passion, expertise, and the ability to deliver measurable results. If we continue to prioritize political loyalty over competence, we risk stalling the progress that Nigeria desperately needs,” he warned.
Dr. Ogunronbi concluded by reiterating the importance of cutting governance costs and fostering accountability.
“We must be deliberate in building a new Nigeria. It is not only possible but necessary if we are to secure a brighter future for generations to come,” he said.
This timely critique serves as a call to action for Nigerians and the government alike, reminding us all of the urgent need for reform and inclusiveness in the nation’s governance structure. The future of Nigeria depends on our collective efforts to build a system that works for all.
