The senator representing Borno South, Ali Ndume, has expressed support for President Bola Tinubu’s recent decision to appoint several Northerners to leading positions in major federal agencies. He described the move as a positive response to earlier calls for fairer representation across Nigeria’s diverse regions.
In a statement signed and released in Abuja on Saturday, Ndume said the President’s latest appointments show his willingness to listen to public concerns and work toward inclusive governance. This followed an announcement on Friday naming 12 individuals—many from Northern states—to various strategic roles in the federal government.
Among the newly appointed officials are Yazid Shehu Danfulani from Zamfara, who was named Managing Director of the Nigerian Agricultural Insurance Corporation (NAIC); Hamza Baba from Kano, appointed as Programme Manager of the Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme (GEEP); and Abubakar Jarengol from Adamawa, who now serves as Executive Director of Operations at NAIC.
Others include Sama’ila Audu (Katsina) as Executive Director of Administration at the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF); Prof. Musa Tafsiri (Kebbi) as Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education; and Isa Aremu (Kwara) as Director-General of the Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies.
Senator Ndume, who has been vocal in the past about the need for balanced representation in government appointments, referred to Section 14(3) of the 1999 Constitution, which advocates for equity in federal appointments to reflect the federal character of Nigeria.
“President Tinubu is someone who surrenders to constructive criticism. I have known him to be a fair-minded, cosmopolitan person. No one is infallible,” Ndume said.
He added that the Northern leaders, himself included, raised the concern not to stir political tension but to draw attention to what the Constitution demands. He said this latest development proves that President Tinubu is ready to adjust policies based on national interest.
Ndume congratulated the new appointees and called on them to live up to expectations. He noted that Nigerians are hopeful for meaningful reforms and stronger governance.
He also stated his continued support for the Tinubu administration but emphasized that his backing will always be based on national unity, constitutional values, and accountability.
“I support the President’s broader vision for the country and believe he has the capacity to fulfill the promises of democracy,” Ndume added.
