By Musa Abdulaziz
In the complex tapestry of Nigeria’s socio-political landscape, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu stands out as a figure committed to national unity and inclusiveness. His approach to governance, particularly in the realm of security, underscores his detribalized nature—a rare quality in a country often fraught with ethnic tensions. Northerners, in particular, should recognize and appreciate the significant roles and responsibilities he has entrusted to them within Nigeria’s key security agencies.
Tinubu’s leadership has seen a continuation and reinforcement of northern appointments in strategic security positions. This not only highlights his commitment to meritocracy and stability but also his dedication to a unified Nigeria, where competence and experience, rather than ethnic origin, determine leadership roles.
Key Northern Appointments in Security Agencies
Several high-profile appointments and reappointments of Northerners in key security agencies under Tinubu’s administration illustrate his inclusive approach. These appointments are not mere token gestures but strategic placements aimed at leveraging the expertise and experience of these individuals to bolster Nigeria’s security apparatus.
Defence Minister: Mohammed Badaru from Jigawa State
One of the most significant appointments is that of Mohammed Badaru as the Defence Minister. Hailing from Jigawa State, Badaru brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to Nigeria’s defense strategy. His appointment underscores Tinubu’s trust in his ability to navigate the complex security landscape of the country.
Office of Chief of Defence Staff, CDS, headed by Major General Christopher Musa hails from Kaduna State. Under his the military has made a lot of incursions into the enclave of enemies of Nigeria.
Office of the Chief of Army Staff, COAS, is headed by Lt General Taoreed Lagbaja, under his watch in the last one year, the army has recorded feats that are testament to the resilience and sacrifice of the men and women in uniform, who tirelessly work to ensure the safety and security of all Nigerians.
National Security Adviser: Nuhu Ribadu from Adamawa State
Nuhu Ribadu, from Adamawa State, serves as the National Security Adviser. His role is pivotal in coordinating the country’s security efforts, and his extensive experience in law enforcement and anti-corruption efforts is invaluable. Ribadu’s appointment demonstrates Tinubu’s recognition of talent and expertise irrespective of ethnic background.
Commandant General, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps Ahmed Audi from Nasarawa St
Dr. Ahmed Audi, a native of Nasarawa State, heads the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). His leadership is crucial in ensuring civil protection and emergency response across the nation. Audi’s appointment reflects Tinubu’s commitment to continuity and stability in critical security roles.
Continuing Appointments from Previous Administration
Tinubu’s respect for effective leadership extends to retaining competent officials appointed by his predecessors. This decision is particularly evident in his approach to the Department of State Services (DSS) and other key agencies.
Director General of DSS: Yusuf Magaji Bichi from Kano State
Appointed by former President Muhammadu Buhari, Yusuf Magaji Bichi from Kano State continues to serve as the Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS). The DSS plays a crucial role in Nigeria’s intelligence and security operations. By retaining Bichi, Tinubu has demonstrated a commitment to stability and continuity, recognizing the effectiveness and experience Bichi brings to the table.
The DSS has played a very proactive role in combatting insecurity particularly in the areas of intelligence gathering and through Successful intelligence-led operations the DSS and other intelligence agencies prevented numerous terrorist attacks and criminal activities.
Also, high-profile terrorist commanders and their associates were also apprehended across multiple states, preventing potential catastrophic incidents.
In the last one year the DG has carried out a lot of transformative reforms in repositioning the agency.
Intelligence dissemination in the south-south region contributed to a reduction in oil theft. New directorates were established to enhance transparency and democratic principles, promoting security and economic stability through intelligence-sharing initiatives.
Chairman/Chief Executive, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA): Brigadier General Buba Marwa (Retd) from Adamawa State
Brigadier General Buba Marwa (Retd), hailing from Kaduna State, remains at the helm of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). Marwa’s leadership in combating drug trafficking and abuse has been instrumental in safeguarding public health and security. Tinubu’s decision to retain Marwa underscores his appreciation for proven leadership and success.
Leadership Across Other Security Agencies
Tinubu’s detribalized approach is also evident in his appointments across other vital security agencies, ensuring a broad representation that includes significant northern leadership.
Nigerian Correctional Service: Haliru Nababa from Sokoto State
Haliru Nababa from Sokoto State continues to serve as the Controller General of the Nigerian Correctional Service. His role in overseeing the country’s correctional facilities and inmate rehabilitation programs is critical. Nababa’s retention highlights Tinubu’s focus on effective administration and reform in the correctional sector.
Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC): Shehu Mohammed hails from Kaduna is the Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC). His leadership in road safety enforcement and traffic management is vital for reducing accidents and ensuring safer roads across Nigeria.
Nigerian Air Force: Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar from Kano State
Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar from Kano State serves as the Chief of Air Staff. His role in leading the Air Force’s efforts to maintain air superiority and support ground operations is crucial for national security. Abubakar’s appointment underscores Tinubu’s commitment to a robust and capable military leadership.
The Broader Implications of Tinubu’s Inclusive Leadership
President Tinubu’s inclusive approach in appointing Northerners to key security positions reflects his broader vision for Nigeria—a vision where unity, competence, and meritocracy drive governance. This approach is not only a strategic move to enhance national security but also a statement against the divisive politics that have often plagued Nigeria.
Promoting National Unity
Tinubu’s appointments are a testament to his belief in a unified Nigeria where all ethnic groups have equal opportunities to contribute to national development. By entrusting key security roles to Northerners, Tinubu sends a powerful message that national service transcends ethnic boundaries.
Ensuring Stability and Continuity
Retaining experienced leaders from previous administrations ensures stability and continuity in Nigeria’s security operations. This decision mitigates disruptions and leverages the existing expertise within these agencies, enhancing their effectiveness in addressing security challenges.
Building a Meritocratic System
Tinubu’s leadership exemplifies a meritocratic approach, where appointments are based on competence, experience, and the ability to deliver results. This system fosters a culture of excellence and accountability, essential for effective governance and national progress.
Conclusion
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s detribalized leadership is evident in his strategic appointments of Northerners to key security positions. These appointments are not only a recognition of the competence and experience of these individuals but also a commitment to national unity and stability. Northerners, and indeed all Nigerians, should appreciate and support Tinubu’s inclusive approach, which aims to harness the best talents across the country for the greater good.
In a nation as diverse as Nigeria, Tinubu’s actions set a precedent for future leaders, emphasizing that true leadership transcends ethnic and regional affiliations. His commitment to a unified, secure, and prosperous Nigeria is a vision that all citizens should rally behind, recognizing that the strength of the nation lies in its diversity and the collective contributions of its people.
Musa Abdulaziz, a public affairs analyst wrote from Abuja.