Tinubu Explains Bosun Tijani’s Ministerial Appointment Despite Past Criticism

Tinubu Explains Bosun Tijani’s Ministerial Appointment Despite Past Criticism

Tinubu Defends Bosun Tijani’s Appointment, Citing Talent Over Past Criticism

President Bola Tinubu has explained his decision to appoint Bosun Tijani as the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, despite his history of criticizing the administration and the National Assembly. The President emphasized that his selection was based on recognizing talent and giving individuals the opportunity to contribute positively to the country, regardless of their past views.

Speaking at a special Iftar in his honor at the Presidential Villa to mark his 73rd birthday, Tinubu revealed that he considered Tijani’s activism and outspokenness before making his decision. According to the minister, Tinubu personally reassured him that his past criticisms would not define his future contributions.

Tijani shared that after his confirmation, the President told him, “I have looked at your records and activism, and I have seen there is something in you.

I am giving you the opportunity to represent your country and contribute to making it a better place.” He admitted he had expected a scolding for his past statements but was instead met with Tinubu’s magnanimity.

Tinubu acknowledged the controversy surrounding Tijani’s nomination, with close confidantes and senators strongly opposing it.

He recalled being advised against the appointment, but he defended his decision, saying, “Because he criticizes me and pours abuses on the parliament does not mean he has nothing to offer.

Maybe his frustration at that time will drive him to contribute more to governance. And today, he is doing that, and I am very proud of him.”

Senate President Godswill Akpabio also reflected on the intense debate that preceded Tijani’s confirmation.

During his Senate screening, lawmakers were reluctant to approve his nomination due to his past remarks. Akpabio recounted, “One senator quoted from the internet where he described all Nigerian senators as ‘morons.’ I had to ask Bosun, ‘Did you write this?’ And he admitted, ‘Sir, I did because that was how I felt then.’”

Despite the resistance, Akpabio said the Senate ultimately trusted Tinubu’s judgment, adding, “We confirmed him because we knew you must have seen something special in him. And today, I am happy to say that he is one of the best-performing ministers in the cabinet.”

Tinubu Explains Bosun Tijani’s Ministerial Appointment Despite Past Criticism