The Nigerian Presidency has reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to equity, competence, and national unity in his federal appointments, addressing concerns over alleged regional imbalances. The Presidency emphasized that Tinubu’s decisions are guided by inclusivity and effective governance, rather than tribal or religious biases.
In a statement shared via his official X handle, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Mr. Sunday Dare, clarified the distribution of appointments made by President Tinubu. According to Dare, the President has so far appointed 71 individuals from the North and 63 from the South into major federal positions, reflecting a deliberate effort to ensure fairness across Nigeria’s regions.
Breaking down the southern appointments, Dare revealed that the South-West received 26 slots, followed by the South-South with 21 appointees, and the South-East with 16. He noted that the North received slightly more appointments than the South, but stressed that the distribution remains balanced and inclusive.
Amid ongoing debates over perceived regional favoritism, Dare pointed to Tinubu’s tenure as Governor of Lagos State as evidence of his detribalized approach to governance. “During his time as Governor, Tinubu’s administration included individuals from across the country, regardless of their origin,” Dare stated.
He further urged Nigerians to avoid premature conclusions about the President’s appointments. “People tend to isolate new appointments so far made by the President and examine them with a tribal lens,” Dare said. “But it is too early to conclude that appointments are lopsided. Tinubu has barely completed two years in office and there are still plenty more appointments coming.”
Dare reiterated that President Tinubu remains committed to fostering inclusivity and collective progress. “As President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains the same man who is not blinded by the cloak of tribe or religion,” he added.
The Presidency’s defense comes amid heightened scrutiny of federal appointments, with critics alleging that certain regions have been marginalized. However, Dare’s statement seeks to reassure Nigerians that Tinubu’s administration is focused on national unity and equitable representation.
