President Bola Tinubu has defended his decision to appoint Dr. Bosun Tijani as the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, stating that the move reflects his commitment to recognizing talent, even among former critics.
Speaking during a special Iftar at the Presidential Villa to mark his 73rd birthday, Tinubu admitted that nominating Tijani was a difficult choice due to objections from close associates.
“When I picked him, it was tough. My very close confidantes, who had read his comments on social media, came to me and said, ‘No, never.’ I said, ‘Yes, he is talented. Because he criticizes me and 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,” Tinubu stated.
Tijani, in his remarks, shared his experience of being appointed despite his past activism and criticism of the President and the National Assembly.
“Before my appointment, I had never met Mr. President. But after my confirmation, he told me, ‘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.’
“I was expecting a proper scolding because of my records, but the magnanimity of the President is one that I experienced for the very first time in my life. In that meeting, some people brought out my record again and told Mr. President, ‘He said this, he did this.’ But the President said, ‘Shut it,’” Tijani recounted.
Tijani was among several dignitaries who delivered goodwill messages to the President, alongside Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu, Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, and Professor Shaffideen Adeniyi Amuwo, a childhood friend of the President.