PRESIDENT BUHARI’S RECENT APPOINTMENTS

There is no need for the outrage that trailed the appointments so far made by President Muhammadu Buhari into some key positions in the administration. I am not trying to defend President Buhari, as he has competent hands to do that for him. But I am trying to bring things into proper perspective for the comprehension of those who had certian reservation about the appointments. For the benefit of those who think that the president is sidelining the other regions especially the SouthEast in his recent appointments are wrong. This is because those appointed into the positions are people of impeccable character and had worked with them previously. He worked with some of them when he was appointed the Chairman of Petroluem Trust Fund (PTF); so he feels that they can assist him to bring about the desired change that this country needs now.

His choice in appointing Mr Babachir David Lawal as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation was hinged on the belief that he can deliver so efficiently well, having worked as a consultant in the defunct PTF. He is a straight forward personality and untainted with any act of corruption. The Chief of Staff, Alhaji Abba Kyari was a quintessential banker who rose to the highest position in different banks in this country. He was an incorruptible banker and has a track record of not giving in to any act of corruption. He can assist President Buhari by offering good suggestion towards good governance and ensure checks and balances in the conduct of those appointed into various positions of responsibility.

The appintment of Col. Hameed Ali as the Comptroller of Customs is in the right direction, taking into account his pedigree as an incorruptible soldier, who despite holding political appointment during the military era as the Military Administrator of Kaduna State has only a three bedroom house in his home. He would no doubt rejuvenate the customs service and at the same time enhance revenue generation for this great country. These personalities and the others appointed by President Buhari would propel the engine room of his administration. What is most needed from all Nigerians irrespective of region, tribe or religion is maximum support for the president to correct the wrongs made by previous administration.

We should not at the early stage of the present administration whip up sentiment based on the appointments made by the president.

Usman Santuraki, Demsawo, Jimeta-Yola